The introduction of a Class 5 medical certificate
CASA has introduced a new self-declaration Class 5 medical certificate. AusALPA raised some concerns, including a comprehensive list of policy improvement opportunities.
AusALPA appreciated the opportunity to offer feedback on the Class 5 self-declaration policy proposal and to express inability to endorse the current policy on Class 5 medicals due to significant reservations. Concerns primarily revolve around potential compromises to existing safety standards, particularly regarding the concept of self-declaration for medical fitness. AusALPA highlighted risks associated with operating alongside Class 5 medical holders, especially in busy airspace, and cites instances of inappropriate self-declaration by pilots. Additionally, they caution against the policy being utilized as a workaround rather than a genuine means of alleviating regulatory burdens.
To address these concerns, AusALPA proposed several policy improvement opportunities including recommending a trial implementation of the policy, stressing the necessity of initial medical certification by a medical practitioner rather than self-declaration. Moreover, they advocate for comprehensive data collection on Class 5 medical usage, including audits of a representative sample of pilots, and transparent audit processes by CASA. Furthermore, AusALPA emphasized the importance of risk-based criteria for access to Class C and D airspace, asserting that airspace access rights must be accompanied by corresponding responsibilities. Ultimately, AusALPA urges CASA to halt the implementation of the Class 5 policy until these necessary improvements are incorporated to prevent potential degradation of safety standards.
CASA states that controlled airspace is one of the countermeasures to support a Class 5 medical operation however, AusALPA believe that controlled airspace exists due to a higher risk mitigation requirement and this process have a big reliance on pilots self reporting any medical issues that affect them. We will continue to monitor and will contribute to any post implementation review consultation opportunities.
The AusALPA submission to the initial consultation can be found
here.