Airsickness in Flight Personnel

"Airsickness is a complex phenomenon with contributions from both physiological and psychological factors. While airsickness is largely the product of physiological forces, it is the psychological factors that can serve to maintain or exacerbate the experience for some people. And for those who have a love of aviation and want to fly as a vocation, airsickness can be an often unexpected hurdle. Because of this, psychological interventions can be an important tool."

"Airsickness, especially in trainees, is a common experience, particularly in the early stages of training. For most people, adaptation occurs with minimal effort simply by incorporating basic strategies and logging more flight hours. However, some people struggle with airsickness and can be assisted by implementation of psychological mitigation strategies. This post will focus on psychological factors and strategies that are relevant to flight personnel."

Airsickness results from interacting physiological and psychological factors, with physiological motion cues often primary and psychological factors able to maintain or worsen symptoms. Flight trainees commonly experience airsickness early in training, and many adapt through basic strategies and accumulating flight hours. Some individuals continue to struggle and benefit from psychological mitigation techniques. Typical passenger countermeasures are often unavailable to crew and trainees because of duties and regulations. Pharmacologic prevention options exist but are generally not permitted for flight personnel due to side effects, except during formal adaptation flights. Effective interventions address both physiological and psychological domains.

Read at Psychology Today