Addressing Mental Health in Aviation: A Call for Action

A top safety official has called for the United States to prioritize the mental health of aviation professionals, including pilots and air traffic controllers, following an incident in which an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot allegedly attempted to crash a commercial flight. The official emphasized the need for a culture that encourages individuals to seek help rather than lie about their struggles. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced the formation of a pilot mental health committee to address the issue and encourage reporting of mental health conditions.