DIABETES-MELLITUS IN AIRCREW - TYPE-I DIABETES IN A PILOT

Diabetes mellitus has traditionally been considered disqualifying for flying duties. Increasingly, our understanding of both Type I and Type II diabetes permits identification of subgroups of diabetics with an acceptable aeromedical risk. A ease is presented of a Canadian Forces pilot with Type I diabetes who continues on restricted flying duties. The pathophysiology of Type I and Type II diabetes is discussed, as we ll as aeromedical considerations for returning a diabetic to trying st atus. Within an envelope of defined geographic and operational trying limitations, diabetic aircrew may be safely and usefully returned to r estricted flying duties.