Final answer:
The FAA sets strict limitations on pilot duty periods to ensure safety, preventing fatigue that can result from circadian rhythm disruptions due to extensively infringing upon the window of circadian low.
Step-by-step explanation:
To address the question of what conditions must be met for SkyWest to schedule pilots for more than three consecutive Flight Duty Periods that infringe on their window of circadian low (WOCL), we must refer to the regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Simply put, pilots, such as those working for SkyWest, are subject to duty period limitations to ensure safety and mitigate the risks associated with disruptions of normal sleep and the potential for fatigue, a primary concern for night time operations.
The FAA has introduced specific limits for how long a pilot is allowed to fly to prevent the effects of jet lag and the mismatch between a pilot's internal circadian rhythms and their environment, which can lead to fatigue, sluggishness, irritability, and insomnia.
These rules are designed not just for the safety and health of the pilot, but also for the safety of passengers.
If a pilot is required to work during WOCL or for extended periods, SkyWest must comply with strict rest period requirements and other operational stipulations as determined by aviation law and company policies.
Which may include provisions for sufficient rest before duty, limitation of duty period lengths, and subsequent rest arrangements.