Quote:39. We are satisfied, in particular on the basis of the evidence provided by Dr Cameron, that issuing a Class 1 or Class 2 medical certificate to the applicant in light of his failure to meet the medical standards is likely to endanger the safety of air navigation given the non-trivial risk of him experiencing a further cerebrovascular accident. We are not satisfied it is possible to devise conditions that would acceptably ameliorate the risk: none were suggested, apart from the applicant’s concession that he would work only as a co-pilot rather than as pilot-in-command.
Tricky one this; if and it’s a big IF, Pony-Pooh Shambollic had not completely buggered up Avmed's reputation; and, the CVD matter had been treated with mature consideration; and, the Hazelton case had been dealt with fairly; and, the Hempel case been given the same honest consideration; one could almost applaud the CASA caution. For that’s what it is.
McCabe has ruled; and, if in error, then it is on the side of caution. It’s tough on the pilot, but he may still earn a living and stay within the profession on the Sim and who knows; in year or two, there may be a way back to full flying duties. Neither CASA, the court or the medico’s have made it a ‘life sentence’. I wonder how much the ‘associated’ items mentioned influenced CASA, the AAT and the medico’s. I often wonder how I would have voted, had I been on the jury. Tough call.