FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-69/17

Title and Subtitle: Time-zone effects on the long-distance air traveler.

Report Date: September 1969

Authors: Siegel PV, Gerathewhol SJ, Mohler SR.

Abstract: Findings are presented on the consequences of rapidly crossing numerous time zones, such as occurs in present-day jet aircraft travel. Conclusions reached by FAA researchers and scientists of other laboratories are included, together with recommendations for overcoming time-zone fatigue. These recommendations are for use by the individual long distance traveler. A practical formula is given which describes how one may compute the rest period following a long distance trip. This period is to enable the biological rhythms to rephase in order that the traveler will be in proper physical and mental condition to pursue his responsibilities.

Key Words: AIR TRANSPORTATION, FATIGUE (MECHANICS), JET AIRCRAFT, BIOLOGICAL RHYTHMS, BEHAVIOR, TIME, DIURNAL VARIATIONS.

No. of Pages: 16