Self-Reported Aviation Concerns of Male and Female U.S. Air Force and Army Rated Aircrew.
Abstract
An anonymous survey of all US Army and Air Force rated female aircrew and age/duty-matched men covered demographics; aircraft fit and safety; interpersonal relationships, waste disposal, menstruation, personal equipment, prisoner of war (POW), and women-in-combat concerns. Of 1,134 questionnaires mailed, 44-66% were returned (depending on job, service, time in service, and gender). Male and female aircrew were similar in many respects (as delineated in the report), probably indicating self-selection into aviation. Women, however, were medically grounded for prolonged periods twice as often as men, not completely due to pregnancy. Despite safety concerns, women and men were generally happy with their aircraft. Women, and some men, used dehydration/fasting to cope with inadequate aircraft waste collection systems. Small women and large men had problems with personal flight equipment, although equipment fit most aircrew of both genders. Women felt they have to work harder, but admit to having received special help in learning to fly. Many men were upset with 'affirmative action' but were reticent to complain. Women had problems with their (male) peers' wives. Many aircrew believed they have inadequate POW training; women fear rape. Men were not convinced women should fly in combat; women overwhelmingly asserted they should. Both genders believed there should be no quotas; combat slots should be allotted on merit. Men thought they might be expected to protect a female POW. Women, although denying menstrual concerns and refusing to take themselves off the flight schedule, admitted to taking over-the-counter and prescription medications to alleviate menstrual symptoms.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA308312
Entities
People
- Raymond E. King
- Victoria M. Voge
Organizations
- United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine