- Pilots should seek the advice of a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME) if they become aware of any condition that could affect their ability to safely carry out the privileges of their aviation licence.
On 3 September 2011 the pilot and one crewman in a Robinson R-44 helicopter departed an airstrip located near the Kumarina roadhouse, approximately 150 km south of Newman, Western Australia.
The crew were conducting low-level geophysical survey operations when the pilot was observed to have slumped forward in the seat. The crewman, who was seated behind the pilot, made unsuccessful attempts to rouse the pilot. The helicopter subsequently impacted terrain causing significant injuries to the crewman and the pilot. After the impact the pilot regained consciousness but died of his injuries before medical help arrived.
Pilots must provide accurate and complete information on their medical questionnaire and seek medical advice for any condition that could affect their ability to fly safely.
The ATSB found that the pilot held a Class 1 Aviation Medical Certificate with no restrictions despite inconsistencies in recorded information in the pilot’s aviation medical questionnaires and one previous unconsciousness episode being recorded. If the correct information had been documented, further medical tests may have been required and the results used to better assess the pilot’s medical status.
During the investigation, CASA was advised of the reporting inconsistencies in the pilot’s aviation medical questionnaires. In response, CASA confirmed that the medical section of its website is being reviewed and guidance material on medical issue reporting requirements will be available on the website when the work is complete.
In addition to regular aviation medical assessments, pilots should seek the advice of a Designated Aviation Medical Examiner (DAME) if they become aware of any condition that could affect their ability to safely carry out the privileges of their aviation licence. It is also important for pilots to check the information documented in their aviation medical assessment for accuracy and completeness to allow for accurate assessment of their medical status and any risk to the safety of flight.
Read the report: Pilot incapacitation while operating a Robinson R44, VH-HCA, 180 km south-south-west of Newman, Western Australia, on 3 September 2011