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European air safety threatened by cost-cutting and staff fatigue, study warns
A new study by Ghent University in Belgium has raised alarm over the state of aviation safety in Europe. According to the research, widespread cost-cutting and pressure on staff have “systematically weakened” safety standards, leaving airline workers exhausted and fearful of challenging management decisions.
The survey, which gathered responses from nearly 7,000 pilots and cabin crew, revealed that many employees feel forced to work long hours, hide fatigue, and even prioritise sales of onboard products over passenger wellbeing. Researchers warned that this shift risks undermining the safety-focused role of cabin crew and creates conflicts between commercial and operational responsibilities.
The report also highlighted that the Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the deterioration of working conditions. Experienced pilots have been replaced by younger and less costly workers, often under precarious contracts. More than half of respondents said they do not feel able to question instructions that could compromise safety, a sharp decline compared with a decade ago.
Crew testimonies revealed a climate of fear. Some described being treated “like numbers” and reported toxic workplace cultures where profit is prioritised over health. Alarmingly, nearly one in three pilots admitted hesitating to declare themselves unfit to fly out of fear for their careers.
The authors concluded that without stronger regulations and fairer contracts, Europe’s aviation sector could lose its long-standing “safety edge.” Pilot unions also warned that pressure on staff directly increases risks for passengers.