Pregnancy

Pilots may continue to fly up to 30 weeks into their pregnancy, provided the pregnancy is normal and without complications. However, there are certain physiological changes that may affect flight safety, and the foetus may be exposed to potentially hazardous conditions. Pilots should be aware of the hazards so that they can make informed decisions on whether they choose to fly or not.

As soon as a pilot realizes that she is pregnant, she should seek prenatal care from a qualified physician or midwife and she should ensure that her maternity-care provider is aware that she is a pilot. Should problems develop with the pregnancy before the 30th week, the Regional Aviation Medical Officer (RAMO) must be notified.

In the first trimester, nausea and vomiting are common and may be worsened by turbulence, engine fumes and G forces. In the first and second trimester, there is an increased likelihood of fainting, but this is uncommon in a sitting position. However, G tolerance may be reduced. A relative anaemia may occur after the second trimester and may affect the pilot’s susceptibility to hypoxia. Hypoxia is not a problem for the foetus below 10,000 feet ASL.

Pilots with a normal pregnancy are considered temporarily unfit and should cease flying after the 30th week of pregnancy. The pilot may resume her flying privileges six weeks after delivery if there are no significant medical issues. A brief medical report from her attending physician should be forwarded to the RAMO.

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