Scientific Evaluation of the Impact of an Increase in the Retirement Age on the Cognitive Functions and Well-Being of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs)

Abstract: In 2020, the Swiss Federal Council made it a strategic objective to encourage Skyguide (Switzerland’s private air navigation service provider) and social partners (HelvetiCA) to work together to raise the retirement age from the current 56/59 to at least 60. In this context, HelvetiCA and Skyguide agreed to carry out a scientific study (RAFA study) to assess the possible impact of this increase in age, in particular on the psychological well-being and cognitive performance of ATCOs. Two studies were carried out following a review of the literature. The first study aimed to identify the factors relating to working conditions, individual characteristics and coping strategies that may be affected by ageing and sought to assess whether these factors have an impact on the ability to perform operational tasks according to the demands and conditions of the job carried out by ATCOs. The second study aimed to assess the cognitive functions of ATCOs of different ages using a battery of neuropsychological tests to examine the impact of ageing on cognitive performance, a crucial aspect of air traffic control activity. After a 13-month study period, a final report containing 17 recommendations was submitted to HelvetiCA/Skyguide. Within the context of the Collective Labour Agreement agreed in January 2024, the social partners agreed to implement the recommendations to help HelvetiCA and Skyguide manage this change safely and efficiently, with a transparent programme.

Keywords: Air Traffic Controllers, Cognitive Ageing, Retirement age, Well-being, Fatigue

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005189

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