Insulin-dependent diabetes and aeromedical certification - the Australian perspective

Abstract

Whether pilots with insulin-dependent diabetes should be allowed to fly has long been a controversial issue. Hypoglycaemia remains a significant threat to flight safety, and a barrier for pilots with insulin-dependent diabetes to overcome. Some countries allow recreational pilots to fly while treated with insulin under strict conditions. Recent changes in aeromedical certification in Australia will give pilots with diabetes more freedom to exercise the privileges of their licence, while adopting mechanisms to ensure the safety of air navigation.