Plain English Meaning

Stress you bring with you into the cockpit because of how you've been living, eating, sleeping, or feeling — not stress caused by the flying itself.

Full Definition

Stress that a pilot creates for themselves through their own choices, habits, or lifestyle, rather than stress caused by the flight environment or the aircraft. Common sources include poor sleep, dehydration, skipped meals, alcohol or drug use, illness flown through, fatigue, and emotional pressure. Self-imposed stress degrades alertness, judgment, and physical performance in the cockpit.

Context Anchor

Seen in aeromedical and preflight decision-making discussions, especially when deciding whether is fit to fly that day.