BTN News: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) gave Mexico a Category 2 rating after a safety audit in 2021. One big change was moving the Aviation Medicine department back to the Civil Aviation Federal Agency (AFAC). This department had been part of Preventive Medicine for Transportation for decades. The goal was to save money by combining medical exams for all transport operators. But this plan overlooked the special needs of aviation medicine. Some thought the strict rules for medical exams were too much. They didn’t see how important aviation medicine is for safe air travel.
In 2000, Dr. Aguilar ZÃnser faced many questions from experts about this field during a Congress forum. Even then, there was a lack of understanding about why aviation medicine was so important. Now, almost 25 years later, it is clear that aviation medicine is crucial. It is needed to pass safety audits and follow the rules of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Aviation medicine focuses on preventing health problems and keeping track of the health of Aeronautical Technical Personnel (ATP). These thorough medical exams are vital for passenger safety. This is not an elite issue but a serious one. Aviation professionals face tough physical and mental challenges. They often stay overnight away from home, deal with changing schedules, and work in different altitudes and temperatures. These conditions add a lot of stress, especially when experienced regularly.
Aviation medicine must check many health factors like hearing, color vision, blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. High levels in any of these can mean a crew member is “unfit” to work. Flight fatigue has also become a critical issue in recent years, as it has caused many accidents. Problems like jet lag and anxiety need more research as well.
Passenger health is also very important. Many people have heard of “economy class syndrome,” which can cause blood clots. Lack of oxygen on flights can also affect clear thinking. These risks show why specialized medical care in aviation is necessary.
In conclusion, aviation medicine is key to the safety and health of both crew members and passengers. The unique health needs of aviation workers require special attention. This medical field is essential for the aviation industry’s safety.
