The Daily The Sunday Read: ‘Why Airline Pilots Feel Pushed to Hide Their Mental Illness’
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Mar 30, 2025 
Helena Yang, an emergency physician and contributor to The New York Times magazine, dives into the pressing issue of mental health among airline pilots. She discusses the harrowing story of pilot Troy Merritt, who felt compelled to hide his depression to keep flying. The conversation highlights the stigma surrounding mental illness in aviation and the potential dangers it poses to flight safety. Yang advocates for policy reforms and improved support systems, underscoring the need for a cultural shift in how the industry addresses mental health challenges.
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Troy Merritt's Struggle
- Pilot Troy Merritt experienced severe depression after his 30th birthday.
- He avoided a formal diagnosis, fearing it would ground him, despite his worsening condition.
Germanwings Tragedy's Impact
- The 2015 Germanwings crash, where a pilot intentionally crashed the plane, highlights pilot mental health's importance.
- This tragedy intensified scrutiny on regulators and influenced policy changes.
Pilots' Reluctance to Disclose
- An investigation revealed pilots' reluctance to disclose mental health conditions limits the FAA's risk mitigation.
- This reluctance is driven by fear of grounding and the arduous certification process.