Aviation Runs on Shifts. But Shifts Are Under Pressure
Across air traffic control, ground operations, maintenance and engineering, aviation depends on highly skilled people working complex, around-the-clock rosters.
But those systems are under strain.
- Fatigue is rising.
- Staffing buffers are shrinking.
- And experienced people are increasingly choosing to leave.
Did You Know?
Industry research shows fatigue and rigid scheduling are now among the strongest predictors of turnover in safety-critical, shift-based roles. This white paper explores why – and what can realistically be done about it.
“The biggest challenge is running with minimum staffing 80% of the year. Fatigue becomes the norm.”
“People leave because the glamour is gone. They can earn the same with easier hours elsewhere.”
“Work-life balance depends on staying close to contracted hours. Anything more hides resource issues.”
“Tech helps only when it genuinely reduces workload. Too many systems actually create more admin.”
Aviation Runs on Shifts. But Shifts Are Under Pressure
Across air traffic control, ground operations, maintenance and engineering, aviation depends on highly skilled people working complex, around-the-clock rosters.
But those systems are under strain.
- Fatigue is rising.
- Staffing buffers are shrinking.
- And experienced people are increasingly choosing to leave.
Did You Know?
Industry research shows fatigue and rigid scheduling are now among the strongest predictors of turnover in safety-critical, shift-based roles. This white paper explores why – and what can realistically be done about it.
“The biggest challenge is running with minimum staffing 80% of the year. Fatigue becomes the norm.”
“People leave because the glamour is gone. They can earn the same with easier hours elsewhere.”
“Work-life balance depends on staying close to contracted hours. Anything more hides resource issues.”
“Tech helps only when it genuinely reduces workload. Too many systems actually create more admin.”
Why We Wrote This White Paper?
This research didn’t start as a marketing project. It started with conversations.
Aviation is where our journey began. Our very first MyShiftPlanner user was an airport worker who simply wanted a better way to see his shifts and plan his life around them.
Since then, we’ve spoken to – and worked alongside – people across:
-
Air traffic control
-
Aircraft maintenance and MRO
-
Ground handling and dispatch
-
Training and operational management
We kept hearing the same challenges, often in isolation. So we decided to step back, listen properly, and bring those insights together.
Why We Wrote This White Paper?
This research didn’t start as a marketing project. It started with conversations.
Aviation is where our journey began.
Our very first MyShiftPlanner user was an airport worker who simply wanted a better way to see his shifts and plan his life around them.
Since then, we’ve spoken to – and worked alongside – people across:
-
Air traffic control
-
Aircraft maintenance and MRO
-
Ground handling and dispatch
-
Training and operational management
We kept hearing the same challenges, often in isolation. So we decided to step back, listen properly, and bring those insights together.
What You’ll Learn Inside
This white paper combines frontline experience, campaign data, and industry research to explore:
What’s Driving Turnover Beyond Pay
Fatigue, culture, and the erosion of aviation’s “aspirational” image.
Scheduling Pressure Points
Why fixed rosters and minimum staffing create burnout.
The Reality of Workforce Fatigue
How it builds, impacts morale, and why it’s so hard to fix.
Technology: Friend or Foe?
Why some tools reduce stress – and others make it worse.
What Organisations Are Doing That Works
Practical strategies from across aviation.
Actionable Recommendations
Evidence-based steps for leaders and planners.
What You’ll Learn Inside
This white paper combines frontline experience, campaign data, and industry research to explore:
What’s Driving Turnover Beyond Pay
Fatigue, culture, and the erosion of aviation’s “aspirational” image.
Scheduling Pressure Points
Why fixed rosters and minimum staffing create burnout.
The Reality of Workforce Fatigue
How it builds, impacts morale, and why it’s so hard to fix.
Technology: Friend or Foe?
Why some tools reduce stress – and others make it worse.
What Organisations Are Doing That Works
Practical strategies from across aviation.
Actionable Recommendations
Evidence-based steps for leaders and planners.
Did You Know?
Over 50% of respondents in our engagement felt technology can improve operations – but only when it fits real workflows and is properly supported.
Did You Know?
Over 50% of respondents in our engagement felt technology can improve operations – but only when it fits real workflows and is properly supported.
Who is this Report For?
This white paper is designed for aviation professions, including:
