Note: This is the original issue of Part 67, not the current consolidation.
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This Part prescribes rules concerning−
(1) the issue and holding of medical certificates required by flight crew and air traffic controllers; and
(2) the medical standards for a medical certificate; and
(3) the certification and operating requirements of medical examiners; and
(4) the requirements for determining suitably qualified medical examiners under schedule 2, clause 27 of the Act.
(a) In this Part:
A medical condition is of aeromedical significance if, having regard to any relevant general direction, it interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which the relevant medical certificate relates.
Aviation Medical Transitional Criteria Notice 2002 means the notice issued by the Minister under section 27Q of the Civil Aviation Act 1990, as amended by the Aviation Medical Transitional Criteria Amendment Notice 2006.
Cardiac pacemaker includes an automatic implantable cardiac defibrillator.
Licence holder means a person who−
(1) holds an aviation document or is a pilot; and
(2) holds, or is required under the rules to hold, a medical certificate.
Medical assessment report means the report of the Director under rule 67.59.
Medical condition includes:
(1) any of the following (no matter how minor):
(i) any illness or injury;
(ii) any bodily infirmity, defect or incapacity;
(iii) any mental infirmity, defect or incapacity;
(iv) any sequela of an illness, injury, infirmity, defect or incapacity mentioned in (i), (ii) or (iii); and
(2) any abnormal psychological state or behavioural or cognitive disorder; and
(3) drug addiction and drug dependence; and
(4) pregnancy and the physiological and psychological consequences of pregnancy or of termination of pregnancy.
Medical manual means the medical manual issued by the Director and includes any incorporated general direction issued by the Director under schedule, clause 25(1) of the Act.
Psychoactive substances means alcohol, opioids, cannabinoids, sedatives and hypnotics, cocaine, other psychostimulants, hallucinogens, and volatile solvents, but excludes coffee and tobacco.
(b) To avoid doubt, a medical condition that causes or is likely to cause incapacitation, sudden or otherwise, is a medical condition of aeromedical significance.
(a) The Director may not grant an exemption from a requirement in Subpart C.
(b) To avoid doubt, paragraph (a) does not affect the power of the Director to rely on flexibility to issue a medical certificate to an applicant under schedule 2, clause 5(3) of the Act.
This Subpart prescribes rules concerning−
(a) the forms and information required when−
(1) applying for a medical certificate; and
(2) assessing an applicant for a medical certificate; and
(b) the classification, effective date and duration of a medical certificate; and
(c) the requirements and criteria for determining medical experts acceptable to the Director for the purpose of reaching an AMC.
The Director may issue the following classes of medical certificate under the Act:
(1) class 1;
(2) class 2;
(3) class 3;
An applicant for a medical certificate must−
(1) complete the approved CAA form specified by the Director and submit it to the Director with payment of the appropriate application fee prescribed by regulations made under the Act; and
(2) produce one of the following documents as evidence of their identity:
(i) a current New Zealand passport;
(ii) a current New Zealand Driver Licence;
(iii) an equivalent form of photographic identification that is acceptable to the Director; and
(3) where applicable, produce for inspection,−
(i) the licence that the applicant holds for which the medical certificate is required; and
(ii) the most recent medical certificate held by the applicant; and
(iii) the most recent medical assessment report; and
(4) disclose to the Director and the medical examiner (or authorise the disclosure to them of) any information relating to the applicant’s medical condition or history, including information concerning any conviction for an offence involving the possession or use of drugs or alcohol that the Director may reasonably require under schedule 2, clause 3(2) of the Act to determine whether the applicant satisfies the standards for a medical certificate.
For the purposes of completing a report under schedule 2, clause 2(3) of the Act, a medical examiner−
(1) must−
(i) carry out a general medical examination of the applicant, having regard to the medical standards prescribed for the medical certificate applied for and any relevant general direction; and
(ii) complete the approved CAA form specified in the general directions; and
(2) may not rely upon the results of any test, examination, or reexamination required under the Act for a period of more than 90 days from the date of the test, examination, or reexamination, unless any general direction provides otherwise.
The Director must−
(1) record an assessment of an application for a medical certificate, including details of the medical conditions considered and, if a medical certificate is issued, the surveillance requirements and endorsements imposed on the medical certificate, in an assessment report on the approved CAA form specified in the general directions; and
(2) provide a copy to the applicant.
(a) Subject to paragraphs (c) and (e), the Director may issue—
(1) a class 1 medical certificate for a period of up to—
(i) 6 months, for single-pilot air operations carrying passengers if the applicant is 40 years of age or more on the date that the medical certificate is issued; or
(ii) 12 months, in all other cases;
(2) a class 2 medical certificate for a period of up to—
(i) 60 months, if the applicant is less than 40 years of age on the date that the medical certificate is issued; or
(ii) 24 months, if the applicant is 40 years of age or more on the date that the medical certificate is issued;
(3) a class 3 medical certificate for a period of up to—
(i) 48 months, if the applicant is less than 40 years of age on the date that the medical certificate is issued; or
(ii) 24 months, if the applicant is 40 years of age or more on the date that the medical certificate is issued.
(b) A medical certificate issued under paragraph (a)—
(1) takes effect on the date that it is issued; and
(2) remains in force for as long as it is current, unless—
(i) it is withdrawn under schedule 2, clause 11(2) of the Act; or
(ii) a subsequent or replacement medical certificate is issued to the holder.
(c) If, on the date of issue of a new medical certificate, the applicant holds a current medical certificate that expires in 30 days or less, the Director may issue the new medical certificate for a period that is longer than that specified in paragraph (a) with the expiry date that would have applied had the certificate been issued on the expiry date of the current medical certificate.
(d) Paragraph (c) only applies, if—
(1) the Director concludes that the applicant is eligible for a new medical certificate issued for the maximum period permitted under paragraph (a); and
(2) the expiry date of the current certificate has not been extended under section 7(2) of the Act.
(e) The Director may issue a class 1 medical certificate under paragraph (a) to an applicant who is 40 years of age or more on the date that the medical certificate is issued that specifies one period of duration that applies under paragraph (a)(1)(i) and one period of duration that applies under paragraph (a)(1)(ii).
(f) Where paragraph (c) applies and the Director intends to issue a certificate or certificates with differing periods of duration, all of those periods may have the same starting date (namely the expiry date of the current medical certificate referred to in paragraph (c)).
Before determining that a medical expert is acceptable for the purpose of reaching an AMC, the Director must be satisfied that−
(1) the medical expert is a medical practitioner; and
(2) the medical expert is suitably qualified and experienced in,−
(i) aviation medicine; or
(ii) if the Director considers it necessary in a particular case, a branch of medicine that is relevant to the AMC.
(a) A person who holds a medical certificate may apply in writing to the Director for a replacement certificate, if the certificate is−
(1) lost, stolen, or destroyed; or
(2) so damaged that the details on the certificate are no longer clearly legible.
(b) An applicant for a replacement certificate must submit to the Director payment of the appropriate application fee prescribed by regulations made under the Act with−
(1) a statutory declaration that their medical certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed; or
(2) the damaged certificate.
The Director must issue a medical manual that incorporates any general direction issued under schedule 2, clause 25(1) of the Act and that may include information relevant to the consideration of applications for medical certificates, including information and advisory material concerning clinical, administrative and legislative matters.
To avoid doubt, nothing in this rule derogates from any provision of the Privacy Act 2020 or the Health Information Privacy Code 2020.
This Subpart prescribes the standards for a medical certificate.
(a) An applicant who satisfies the standards in paragraphs (b) to (m) meets the medical standards for a class 1 medical certificate.
(b) An applicant must−
(1) have no medical condition that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (b)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) an abnormality;
(ii) a disability or disease (active or latent);
(iii) a sequela of an accident, an injury, or a surgical procedure;
(iv) a physiological or pathological process;
(v) a malignant process;
(vi) a condition that induces fatigue;
(vii) an infection, unless adequate treatment or resolution or both is demonstrable;
(3) not be−
(i) taking any drug, medication, substance, or preparation nor undergoing any treatment; or
(ii) experiencing any side-effect from any drug, medication, substance, preparation or treatment− that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 1 medical certificate relates.
(c) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any neurological, neurosurgical, psychiatric or psychological condition, or behavioural or cognitive disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (c)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) disease or disorder of any component of the nervous system;
(ii) migraine or other severe headaches;
(iii) disturbance of consciousness or function;
(iv) psychiatric condition;
(v) psychosis;
(vi) personality disorder;
(vii) mental abnormality or neurosis;
(viii) depression;
(ix) post-traumatic stress disorder;
(x) sequela of a head injury or neurosurgical procedure; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (c)(1), have no history or diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition associated with an elevated risk of convulsions;
(4) have no history or diagnosis of the use of any psychoactive substance that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 1 medical certificate relates; and
(5) not be taking any psychoactive substance that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 1 medical certificate relates.
(d) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the heart or circulatory tree that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (d)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) coronary artery disease;
(ii) left bundle branch block;
(iii) right bundle branch block unless ischaemic causes have been excluded;
(iv) uncontrolled hypertension;
(v) abnormality of the muscle, valves, or conduction system of the heart;
(vi) abnormality of the rhythm of the heart; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (d)(1), have no disorder requiring a cardiac pacemaker; and
(4) have no excessive cardiovascular risk factors unless normal myocardial perfusion can be demonstrated.
(e) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the respiratory system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (e)(1), have no history or diagnosis of asthma, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance, unless adequate control is obtained with preventative treatment that does not interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or safe performance of the duties to which a class 1 medical certificate relates.
(f) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the alimentary or endocrine systems that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (f)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the digestive system or its adnexae;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the digestive system or its adnexae;
(iii) any metabolic, nutritional or endocrine disorder other than as specified in (3); and
(3) without limiting paragraph (f)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any form of diabetes mellitus or abnormal glucose metabolism unless:
(i) the condition is satisfactorily controlled without the use of any anti-diabetic drug; or
(ii) if an oral anti-diabetic drug is used to control the condition,−
(iia) the condition is under on-going medical supervision and control; and
(iib) insulin is not used; and
(iic) having regard to any relevant general direction, the oral drugs used, individually and in combination, do not, and are not likely to, interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 1 medical certificate relates.
(g) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the reticulo-endothelial or immune systems that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (g)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) enlargement of the spleen unless myeloproliferative and infective causes have been excluded;
(ii) localised or generalised enlargement of the lymphatic glands;
(iii) any disease or condition of the blood or its constituents;
(iv) a disorder or condition associated with immune deficiency or hyper-immunity.
(h) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the genitourinary system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (h)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality or disease of the genito-urinary system;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the genito-urinary system;
(iii) obstruction, or elevated risk of obstruction, to the kidneys or urinary tract.
(i) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the reproductive system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (i)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) menstrual disturbance;
(ii) pregnancy.
(j) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the musculoskeletal system or integument that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (j)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the skin, connective tissues, bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, or tendons;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the skin, connective tissues, bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
(k) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the ears, nose, or throat that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (k)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the external, middle, or internal ear;
(ii) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the mouth, teeth, or upper respiratory tract;
(iii) obstruction of the Eustachian tubes or abnormality of middle ear ventilation;
(iv) disturbance of the vestibular apparatus.
(l) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any hearing disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (l)(1), have no history or diagnosis of hearing deficit in either ear of more than−
(i) 35 dB, at any of the frequencies of 500 Hz, 1000 Hz or 2000 Hz; or
(ii) 50 dB at the frequency of 3000 Hz,
to an extent that is of aeromedical significance.
(m) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any vision disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the eyes or their adnexae;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the eyes or their adnexae;
(iii) abnormal fields of vision or binocular vision performance;
(iv) surgical procedure affecting the refractive status of either eye; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have distant visual acuity, with or without correcting lenses, of 6/9 or better in each eye separately and 6/6 or better binocularly; and
(4) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have near visual acuity, with or without correcting lenses, of N5 or better binocularly at a distance of between 30 and 50 centimetres, and have intermediate visual acuity of N14 or better binocularly at a distance of 1 metre; and
(5) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have no deficit of colour vision to an extent that is of aeromedical significance.
(a) An applicant who satisfies the standards in paragraphs (b) to (m) meets the medical standards for a class 2 medical certificate.
(b) An applicant must−
(1) have no medical condition that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (b)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) an abnormality;
(ii) a disability or disease (active or latent);
(iii) a sequela of an accident, an injury, or a surgical procedure;
(iv) a physiological or pathological process;
(v) a malignant process;
(vi) a condition that induces fatigue;
(vii) an infection, unless adequate treatment or resolution or both is demonstrable;
(3) not be−
(i) taking any drug, medication, substance, or preparation nor undergoing any treatment; or
(ii) experiencing any side-effect from any drug, medication, substance, preparation or treatment−
that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 2 medical certificate relates.
(c) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any neurological, neurosurgical, psychiatric or psychological condition, or behavioural or cognitive disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (c)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) disease or disorder of any component of the nervous system;
(ii) migraine or other severe headaches;
(iii) disturbance of consciousness or function;
(iv) psychiatric condition;
(v) psychosis;
(vi) personality disorder;
(vii) mental abnormality or neurosis;
(viii) depression;
(ix) post-traumatic stress disorder;
(x) sequela of a head injury or neurosurgical procedure; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (c)(1), have no history or diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition associated with an elevated risk of convulsions;
(4) have no history or diagnosis of the use of any psychoactive substance that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 2 medical certificate relates; and
(5) not be taking any psychoactive substance that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 2 medical certificate relates.
(d) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the heart or circulatory tree that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (d)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) coronary artery disease;
(ii) left bundle branch block;
(iii) right bundle branch block unless ischaemic causes have been excluded;
(iv) uncontrolled hypertension;
(v) abnormality of the muscle, valves, or conduction system of the heart;
(vi) abnormality of the rhythm of the heart; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (d)(1), have no disorder requiring a cardiac pacemaker; and
(4) have no excessive cardiovascular risk factors unless normal myocardial perfusion can be demonstrated.
(e) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the respiratory system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (e)(1), have no history or diagnosis of asthma, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance, unless adequate control is obtained with preventative treatment that does not interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or safe performance of the duties to which a class 2 medical certificate relates.
(f) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the alimentary or endocrine systems that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (f)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the digestive system or its adnexae;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the digestive system or its adnexae;
(iii) any metabolic, nutritional or endocrine disorder other than as specified in (3); and
(3) without limiting paragraph (f)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any form of diabetes mellitus or abnormal glucose metabolism unless:
(i) the condition is satisfactorily controlled without the use of any anti-diabetic drug; or
(ii) if an oral anti-diabetic drug is used to control the condition,−
(iia) the condition is under on-going medical supervision and control; and
(iib) insulin is not used; and
(iic) having regard to any relevant general direction, the oral drugs used, individually and in combination, do not, and are not likely to, interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 2 medical certificate relates.
(g) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the reticuloendothelial or immune systems that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (g)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) enlargement of the spleen unless myeloproliferative and infective causes have been excluded;
(ii) localised or generalised enlargement of the lymphatic glands;
(iii) any disease or condition of the blood or its constituents;
(iv) a disorder or condition associated with immune deficiency or hyper-immunity.
(h) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the genitourinary system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (h)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality or disease of the genito-urinary system;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the genito-urinary system;
(iii) obstruction, or elevated risk of obstruction, to the kidneys or urinary tract.
(i) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the reproductive system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (i)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) menstrual disturbance;
(ii) pregnancy.
(j) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the musculoskeletal system or integument that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (j)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the skin, connective tissues, bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, or tendons;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the skin, connective tissues, bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
(k) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the ears, nose, or throat that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (k)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the external, middle, or internal ear;
(ii) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the mouth, teeth, or upper respiratory tract;
(iii) obstruction of the Eustachian tubes or abnormality of middle ear ventilation;
(iv) disturbance of the vestibular apparatus;
(l) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any hearing disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (l)(1), have no hearing deficit in either ear detectable on conversational voice test or of more than−
(i) 35 dB, at any of the frequencies of 500 Hz, 1000 Hz or 2000 Hz; or
(ii) 50 dB at the frequency of 3000 Hz,
to an extent that is of aeromedical significance.
(m) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any vision disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the eyes or their adnexae;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the eyes or their adnexae;
(iii) abnormal fields of vision or binocular vision performance;
(iv) surgical procedure affecting the refractive status of either eye; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have distant visual acuity, with or without correcting lenses, of 6/12 or better in each eye separately and 6/9 or better binocularly; and
(4) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have near visual acuity, with or without correcting lenses, of N5 or better binocularly at a distance of between 30 and 50 centimetres; and
(5) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have no deficit of colour vision to an extent that is of aeromedical significance.
(a) An applicant who satisfies the standards in paragraphs (b) to (m) meets the medical standards for a class 3 medical certificate.
(b) An applicant must−
(1) have no medical condition that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (b)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) an abnormality;
(ii) a disability or disease (active or latent);
(iii) a sequela of an accident, an injury, or a surgical procedure;
(iv) a physiological or pathological process;
(v) a malignant process;
(vi) a condition that induces fatigue;
(vii) an infection, unless adequate treatment or resolution or both is demonstrable;
(3) not be−
(i) taking any drug, medication, substance, or preparation nor undergoing any treatment; or
(ii) experiencing any side-effect from any drug, medication, substance, preparation or treatment−
that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 3 medical certificate relates.
(c) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any neurological, neurosurgical, psychiatric or psychological condition, or behavioural or cognitive disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (c)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) disease or disorder of any component of the nervous system;
(ii) migraine or other severe headaches;
(iii) disturbance of consciousness or function;
(iv) psychiatric condition;
(v) psychosis;
(vi) personality disorder;
(vii) mental abnormality or neurosis;
(viii) depression;
(ix) post-traumatic stress disorder;
(x) sequela of a head injury or neurosurgical procedure; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (c)(1), have no history or diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition associated with an elevated risk of convulsions;
(4) have no history or diagnosis of the use of any psychoactive substance that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 3 medical certificate relates; and
(5) not be taking any psychoactive substance that, having regard to any relevant general direction, interferes or is likely to interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 3 medical certificate relates.
(d) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the heart or circulatory tree that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (d)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) coronary artery disease;
(ii) left bundle branch block;
(iii) right bundle branch block unless ischaemic causes have been excluded;
(iv) uncontrolled hypertension;
(v) abnormality of the muscle, valves, or conduction system of the heart;
(vi) abnormality of the rhythm of the heart; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (d)(1), have no disorder requiring a cardiac pacemaker; and
(4) have no excessive cardiovascular risk factors unless normal myocardial perfusion can be demonstrated.
(e) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the respiratory system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (e)(1), have no history or diagnosis of asthma, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance, unless adequate control is obtained with preventative treatment that does not interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or safe performance of the duties to which a class 3 medical certificate relates.
(f) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the alimentary or endocrine systems that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (f)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the digestive system or its adnexae;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the digestive system or its adnexae;
(iii) any metabolic, nutritional or endocrine disorder other than as specified in (3); and
(3) without limiting paragraph (f)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any form of diabetes mellitus or abnormal glucose metabolism unless:
(i) the condition is satisfactorily controlled without the use of any anti-diabetic drug; or
(ii) if an oral anti-diabetic drug is used to control the condition,−
(iia) the condition is under on-going medical supervision and control; and
(iib) insulin is not used; and
(iic) having regard to any relevant general direction, the oral drugs used, individually and in combination, do not, and are not likely to, interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges or the safe performance of the duties to which a class 3 medical certificate relates.
(g) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the reticuloendothelial or immune systems that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (g)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) enlargement of the spleen unless myeloproliferative and infective causes have been excluded;
(ii) localised or generalised enlargement of the lymphatic glands;
(iii) any disease or condition of the blood or its constituents;
(iv) a disorder or condition associated with immune deficiency or hyper-immunity.
(h) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the genitourinary system that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (h)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality or disease of the genito-urinary system;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the genito-urinary system;
(iii) obstruction, or elevated risk of obstruction, to the kidneys or urinary tract.
(i) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the reproductive system that of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (i)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) menstrual disturbance;
(ii) pregnancy.
(j) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the musculoskeletal system or integument that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (j)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the skin, connective tissues, bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, or tendons;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the skin, connective tissues, bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, or tendons.
(k) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any condition of the ears, nose, or throat that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (k)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the external, middle, or internal ear;
(ii) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the mouth, teeth, or upper respiratory tract;
(iii) disturbance of the vestibular apparatus;
(l) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any hearing disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (l)(1), have no history or diagnosis of hearing deficit in either ear of more than−
(i) 35 dB, at any of the frequencies of 500 Hz, 1000 Hz or 2000 Hz; or
(ii) 50 dB at the frequency of 3000 Hz, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance.
(m) An applicant must−
(1) have no history or diagnosis of any vision disorder that is of aeromedical significance; and
(2) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have no history or diagnosis of any of the following specific medical conditions, to an extent that is of aeromedical significance:
(i) abnormality, disease, or pathological process of the eyes or their adnexae;
(ii) sequela of disease or trauma of, or a surgical procedure on, the eyes or their adnexae;
(iii) abnormal fields of vision or binocular vision performance;
(iv) surgical procedure affecting the refractive status of either eye; and
(3) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have distant visual acuity, with or without correcting lenses, of 6/9 or better in each eye separately and 6/6 or better binocularly; and
(4) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have near visual acuity, with or without correcting lenses, of N5 or better binocularly at a distance of between 30 and 50 centimetres, and have intermediate visual acuity of N14 or better binocularly at a distance of 1 metre; and (5) without limiting paragraph (m)(1), have no deficit of colour vision to an extent that is of aeromedical significance.
This Subpart prescribes rules relating to−
(1) the designation of medical examiners; and
(2) the determination of suitably qualified medical examiners under schedule 2, clause 27(2) of the Act.
The Director may issue the following medical examiner certificates under the Act:
(1) Medical Examiner 1 Certificate;
(2) Medical Examiner 2 Certificate;
(3) Special Medical Examiner Certificate.
(a) A person applying for a medical examiner certificate must complete the approved CAA form specified by the Director and submit it to the Director with−
(1) the exposition required by rule 67.163; and
(2) payment of the appropriate application fee prescribed by regulations made under the Act.
(b) A person applying for the renewal of a medical examiner certificate must complete the approved CAA form specified by the Director and submit it to the Director−
(1) with payment of the appropriate fee prescribed by regulations made under the Act;
(2) not less than 30 working days before the renewal date specified in the certificate or, if no such date is specified, not less than 30 working days before the certificate expires.
(a) Subject to section 75 of the Act, the Director must issue a medical examiner certificate to a person who has applied under rule 67.155, if the Director is satisfied that they meet the certification requirements prescribed in rule 67.161.
(b) Despite paragraph (a), and subject to section 75(1)(b)(ii) of the Act, the Director may, subject to any conditions that the Director considers necessary, issue a Special Medical Examiner Certificate to a person who does not meet the certification requirements prescribed in rule 67.161, if−
(1) the person is a medical practitioner; and
(2) the Director is satisfied that there are emergency or special geographical or special operational circumstances that justify the issue of a Special Medical Examiner Certificate to the person.
A person who holds a current−
(1) Medical Examiner 1 Certificate may conduct medical examinations for the purpose of issuing any class of medical certificate;
(2) Medical Examiner 2 Certificate may conduct medical examinations for the purpose of issuing a class 2 medical certificate;
(3) Special Medical Examiner Certificate may conduct medical examinations as specified in writing by the Director.
A person applying for a medical examiner certificate meets the certification requirements for that certificate, if the person−
(1) is a medical practitioner; and
(2) has−
(i) successfully completed aviation medicine training acceptable to the Director; and
(ii) successfully completed aviation regulatory medicine training acceptable to the Director; and
(iii) demonstrated to the Director that they meet the relevant competencies set out in Appendix A; and
(3) has access to clinical, administrative and communication facilities adequate for the purpose of carrying out medical examinations to the required standard in accordance with the medical manual; and
(4) has a reasonable ability to communicate effectively in English; and
(5) meets the exposition requirements in rule 67.163.
(a) A person applying for a medical examiner certificate must provide the Director with an exposition containing−
(1) a statement signed by the person confirming that the exposition−
(i) accurately describes the person’s aviation medical practice and demonstrates the person’s means and methods of ensuring ongoing compliance with rule 67.161; and
(ii) will be complied with by the person and any personnel involved in the person’s aviation medical practice, at all times; and
(2) a description of the scope of the person’s aviation medical practice; and
(3) the titles and names of any of the personnel involved in the person’s aviation medical practice; and
(4) the duties and responsibilities of personnel referred to in paragraph (a)(3); and
(5) a list of the locations at which the person will practise aviation medicine; and
(6) details demonstrating that the person has access to clinical, administrative and communication facilities that are adequate for the purposes of carrying out aviation medical examinations to the required standard in accordance with the medical manual; and
(7) procedures for communicating with the Director, including−
(i) the referral of applications for medical certificates to the Director for assessment; and
(ii) where applicable, the reporting of changes in the medical condition of a person who holds a medical certificate, or the existence of any previously undetected medical condition in a person who holds a medical certificate, that may interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges to which that person’s medical certificate relates; and
(iii) the prior notification of every proposed change to any of the details specified in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), or (a)(5); and
(8) details of the person’s means of ensuring that the continued compliance requirements specified in rule 67.203 will be met; and
(9) details of systems and procedures to ensure the adequate−
(i) control, inspection, testing, and calibration of medical equipment; and
(ii) control and amendment of documentation relevant to the person’s aviation medical practice; and
(iii) identification, collection, indexing, storage, maintenance and disposal of records; and
(iv) training, assessment and authorisation of any personnel to carry out the functions in (9)(i), (9)(ii) and (9)(iii); and
(10) details of procedures for identifying and managing any conflict of interest arising out of the person's professional obligations; and
(11) details of an annual internal quality assurance audit programme to ensure the conformity of the person’s aviation medical practice with the procedures in the exposition; and
(12) details of procedures to−
(i) control and amend the exposition; and
(ii) ensure that it meets the applicable requirements of this Part; and
(iii) ensure that the Director is provided with a copy of every amendment to the exposition as soon as practicable after its incorporation into the exposition; and
(iv) distribute the exposition to personnel.
(b) The person’s exposition must be acceptable to the Director.
This Subpart prescribes rules relating to the operating requirements of medical examiners.
(a) A person who holds a medical examiner certificate must−
(1) hold at least one complete and current copy of the certificate holder’s exposition at each location of the practice specified in the exposition; and
(2) comply with all procedures, systems and programmes detailed in the certificate holder’s exposition, including those relating to conflicts of interest; and
(3) make every applicable part of the exposition available to personnel who require it to carry out their duties; and
(4) continue to meet and comply with the requirements prescribed for medical examiner certification under Subpart D; and
(5) attend ongoing training courses in aviation medicine and aviation regulation, as may reasonably be required by the Director; and
(6) comply with general directions and emergency directives issued under schedule 2, clause 25 of the Act; and
(7) hold an up-to-date copy of the medical manual or be able to access the manual online; and
(8) ensure that an accurate record is kept of every examination of every applicant for a medical certificate; and
(9) notify the Director of any change of address for service or telephone number within 28 days of the change.
(b) The Director may prescribe conditions under which a person who holds a medical examiner certificate may operate during or following any of the changes specified in rule 67.163(a)(7)(iii).
(c) A person who holds a medical examiner certificate must−
(1) comply with any conditions prescribed under paragraph (b); and
(2) where any of the changes referred to in paragraph (b) require an amendment to the certificate holder’s medical examiner certificate, forward the certificate to the Director as soon as practicable; and
(3) make such amendments to the certificate holder’s exposition as the Director considers necessary in the interests of aviation safety.
For the purposes of a delegation under schedule 2, clause 27(2) of the Act, a person is a suitably qualified medical examiner, if−
(1) the person holds−
(i) for any class of medical certificate, a Medical Examiner 1 Certificate; or
(ii) for class 2 medical certificates, a Medical Examiner 2 Certificate; and
(2) the Director is satisfied that the person−
(i) has the necessary skill and experience; and
(ii) comprehends aviation medical certification policy and procedures; and
(3) the person undertakes to attend ongoing training courses in aviation medicine and aviation regulation, as may reasonably be required by the Director; and
(4) the Director is satisfied that the person has adopted and applies suitable procedures for the identification of conflicts of interest.
To be eligible for the issue of a medical examiner certificate, an applicant must, in addition to satisfying other general requirements, demonstrate competence in performing the functions of a medical examiner. The functions are established in the Civil Aviation Act 2023. There are four generic competence categories: identification, assessment, management, and audit/review.
The table below describes each competency and lists the competency level required of the holders of Medical Examiner 1 Certificates and Medical Examiner 2 Certificates.
| Description of Competencies | Level of Competency for | Level of Competency for |
|---|---|---|
| Identification | ME 1 | ME 2 |
|
1 Apply clinical skills to accurately diagnose and evaluate conditions and situations that have the potential to interact adversely with the aviation environment by utilising:
|
Expert | Expert |
| 2 Identify aspects of an applicant’s medical condition or situation that may cause the applicant to interact adversely with the aviation environment. | Expert | Practised |
| 3 Identify the competing or conflicting interests inherent in regulatory medical practice. | Practised | Practised |
| 4 Access additional information, such as journals, scientific research, internet resources, colleagues, and specialist advisors, to support the assessment of an applicant’s suitability and safety to operate in an aviation environment. | Practised | Practised |
| Assessment | ||
| 5 Employ evidence-based medical principles and processes in determining and analysing the suitability and safety of an applicant to operate within the aviation environment. | Expert | Practised |
| 6 Employ evidence-based medical principles and processes in determining and analysing the suitability and safety of an applicant to operate within the aviation environment. | Practised | Practised |
| 7 Critically analyse and utilise additional information, such as journals, scientific research, internet resources, colleagues, and specialist advisors, to support the assessment of an applicant’s suitability and safety to operate in an aviation environment. | Practised | Practised |
| Management | ||
| 8 Assessing the risk related to an applicant operating in the aviation environment by applying the necessary standards, methodologies, and processes. | Expert | Expert |
| 9 Manage conflicting or competing interests in a manner that does not compromise aviation safety or the quality of clinical decision-making. | Expert | Practised |
|
10 Effectively communicate:
|
Expert | Expert |
|
11 Manage practice administration and record keeping systems so that:
|
Expert | Expert |
| Review / audit | ||
|
12 Be a constructive participant in monitoring, review, and audit activities through:
|
Practised | Practised |
