By Alain Vanalderweireldt

For some time, more and more members face problems with their medical. Two main reasons lie behind this: the new EASA Part-MED (introduced in 2014) does not define anymore the criteria for a permanent loss of licence, which leaves pilots in “off medical” for an undetermined period of time and the medical examination centres are becoming increasingly cautious, especially in case of psychological problems.

Throughout his/her career, a pilot is likely to face one or several medical issues. All of us must therefore feel concerned with “psychological” conditions, which must not be considered anymore as taboo: who can currently tell for sure that he/she will not be confronted along his/her career with a serious family problem, a burnout or heavy fatigue?
On the other hand, some airlines’ loss of licence insurers are discreetly introducing new restrictions; some even discuss and argue endlessly in order not to pay the due compensations.

Our medical/loss of licence working group (MED/LOL) cannot accomplish miracles: if, one day, you are considered medically unfit, you will have a long way ahead of you to get your licence back. However, our team has put into place some processes that can help you in these difficult times in order to make your life easier. Especially, our MED/LOL WG is there to support you psychologically (“peer support”) and to inform you of the latest developments.

For that, it is of utmost importance that you inform us of any problem you might face, no matter how hard it is. Be assured that every case is handled in a human and confidential way. Too often, out of pique or modesty, a pilot facing a problem is likely to stay alone. By behaving like this and by avoiding informing us, our members miss out an essential support: his/her peers’ experience and knowledge. It is indeed one of the roles of BeCA’s MED/LOL WG: centralise the information in order to use it wisely.

To sum up, if you encounter a loss of licence or medical issue, even if it is temporary, inform our secretariat or you VP! And when the problems are solved, inform us equally.