B1 — Intermediate
A study found that many pilots fall asleep during flights. This can be dangerous because pilots need to stay awake and focused while flying a plane. Some pilots feel very tired because of long working hours. They may also have little time to rest. This situation can put passengers at risk. Airlines should give pilots enough time to sleep and rest. Passenger safety should always come first.
Read the article about pilot fatigue.
https://breakingnewsenglish.com/2611/261102-pilot-fatigue-5.html
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “to doze off” mean? “More than three-quarters of respondents said they had briefly dozed off while flying an aircraft.” Use the verb in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “unfit for duty” mean? “Furthermore, half said they had flown when they should have declared themselves unfit for duty.” Use the term in a sentence. Give a synonym.
- What does “cockpit“ mean? “When pilots fear career consequences, fatigue goes unreported and the risk returns to the cockpit.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a synonym.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your reaction to this news?
- Would you feel worried if you knew your pilot was sleepy? Why?
- Would people still travel by plane after hearing this news? Share your thoughts.
- Should airlines have stricter rules about pilots’ working hours? Why do you think so?
- Do you think working long hours is bad for people? Why do you think so?
- What do you usually do to stay awake when you feel sleepy at work?