Jakarta: In a startling incident, the Indonesian government has initiated an investigation into Batik Air following an event where two pilots fell asleep during a flight from Sulawesi to Jakarta, endangering the lives of 153 passengers. The pilots were reportedly unconscious for 28 minutes while the aircraft was mid-air.
The flight in question occurred on January 25, when the two male pilots, one of whom had recently become the father of twins, were navigating the Airbus A320 to Indonesia’s capital. During the flight, the plane momentarily deviated from its intended path but ultimately made a safe landing, as confirmed by BBC Indonesia. Fortunately, all 153 passengers and crew members emerged from the situation unscathed.
According to the report from the Indonesia transport ministry, the 32-year-old lead pilot requested his 28-year-old co-pilot to assume control approximately 30 minutes after departure, citing the need for rest. The co-pilot, who had been assisting with the care of his one-month-old twins, consented but also succumbed to sleep.
During this period, Jakarta’s air traffic control made several attempts to reach the cockpit but received no response. It was only after 28 minutes that the lead pilot awoke, discovered the co-pilot asleep, and noticed the aircraft’s deviation from its course.
The pilots promptly responded to the air traffic control’s signals and managed to land the aircraft without further incident.
Subsequent medical evaluations confirmed that both pilots were in a condition suitable for flying, displaying normal blood pressure, heart rate, and negative alcohol tests. However, an expert interviewed by the broadcaster highlighted that despite the pilots’ seemingly adequate rest, the tests could not ascertain the quality of their sleep.
This incident has raised concerns about pilot fatigue and the rigorous demands of their profession, prompting a reevaluation of current protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of both airline personnel and passengers.
