Effect of Long Working Hours on Mental Well-Being of Female Airline Workers: A Study of Kenya Airways

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of long working hours on the physical, social, psychological, and emotional health of female airline workers at Kenya Airways, aiming to develop strategies to alleviate these impacts and improve employee well- being and industry functioning. Conducted at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, the research used a sequential explanatory mixed methods design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study targeted 1500 female airline workers, with a sample size of 259 selected through simple random sampling, including female pilots, cabin crew, and ground staff. Data collection involved questionnaires, with the questionnaire achieving an internal consistency reliability of 0.79. A pilot study with 10 participants confirmed reliability and validity, supported by supervisors' input. The analysis included descriptive and regression statistics, with quantitative data analyzed using SPSS. Key findings showed that 30.1% of respondents worked over 24 hours, with many reporting back pain (49.4%) and a lack of control over their routines (47.5%). Back pain (β = .532, p < .001) and fainting or dizziness (β = .587, p < .001) were significantly associated with longer working hours. The regression model was statistically significant, F (8, 250) = 0.898, p < 0.001. Recommendations for Kenya Airways and other airlines include implementing flexible work arrangements, providing mental health support services, promoting social support networks, offering stress management and coping strategy training, regular monitoring and evaluation, promoting work-life balance initiatives, and ongoing research and adaptation. The study also suggested further research to include longitudinal, cross-cultural studies, coping mechanisms, gender considerations, and other airline working categories to enhance understanding and management of the effects of long working hours on female airline workers.