Airline Pilots and Mental Health: Progress Made, Stigma Remains
‘If you aren’t lying, you aren’t flying.’ Airline pilots hide mental health struggles: a stark reality in an industry demanding unwavering perfection. The aviation world, a realm of precision and high stakes, often fosters a culture where admitting vulnerability, especially concerning mental health, can lead to career-altering consequences. This creates a dangerous paradox: the very people entrusted with our safety are incentivized to conceal struggles, leading to potentially tragic outcomes.
The aviation industry, despite its technological advancements, seems to struggle with embracing mental health support for its pilots. While the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is making some slow but notable progress, the fear of losing one’s medical certificate and, consequently, their career, remains a significant deterrent.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker