Medical Reporting Behavior of Military, Commercial, and General Aviation Pilots.

Abstract

Introduction: Pilots are undoubtedly among employees who undergo rigorous medical evaluations to ensure they are fit to fly. However, accidents like the Germanwings Flight 9525 highlight that medically unfit individuals can still end up in the cockpit.

Methods: This study sought to investigate Greek pilots' attitudes toward medical reporting, given that the available national research is very limited. Semistructured interviews were conducted and analyzed through Thematic Analysis with subjects (N = 18) from general, military, and commercial aviation in Greece during the first quarter of 2024. Cross-sectoral differences were identified through Content Analysis.

Results: The primary barrier to medical reporting, identified by 16 out of 18 subjects (88% of the sample), was the fear of losing their pilot license, which would have major consequences for their income and way of life. Additionally, concerns about the perceived damage to professional identity and a deep passion for flying contributed to their reluctance to disclose medical issues. A general tendency to conceal medical problems from the Aeromedical Examiner during the annual medical certificate renewal was identified, particularly when such issues were considered of minor importance (61% of the sample).

Discussion: Although the findings align with international research, this study identified a more pronounced tendency among subjects to conceal medical issues they perceived as unimportant. The establishment of compulsory loss-of-pilot-license insurance was the major mitigation measure proposed by the interviewees. Nonetheless, its effectiveness remains questionable according to the literature, and further research is recommended in this area. Kioulepoglou P, Makris I. Medical reporting behavior of military, commercial, and general aviation pilots. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2025; 96(10):903-910.