ASSESSMENT OF THE MENTAL STATE OF PILOTS

Abstract

The main aim of this article is to define and evaluate current status of the problem, to point out insufficient or even missing mental health examinations of pilots and possible fatal consequences including air accidents caused by pilots’ mental health. According to actual regulations, mental health examinations are being provided only during the first aero-medical examination when applying for first class medical certificate. Today, the mental health is not being evaluated even during the regular examinations for the first class certificate neither for other classes certificates. The mental state of pilots is almost never checked which can mean a real danger for civil aviation. The results of not controlling mental state of pilots might lead to fatal accidents and innocent lives losses. The analysis of air accidents covered in this thesis is based on accidents’ investigations final reports and other relevant sources. Also, the knowledge gained from interviews with experts is applied. Even though the air accidents caused by psychical state of pilots are infrequent, the examinations of pilots’ mental health should not definitely be underrated and neglected.