NZ Spirometry FEV1/FVC cutoff?

[BubbaMc]

Does anyone know what the Spirometry FEV1/FVC cutoff percentage is for the purposes of a New Zealand Class 1 medical?

Mine is currently at 62%, wondering if this will be good enough to pass (there's no appreciable difference after exercise).

Alternatively if anyone could share there experiences with marginal spirometer readings in NZ that would be great!

Thanks.

[Aerozepplin]

My initial issue for a class 1 involved a number of hoops to jump through. I can't remember what my % is, but it shows a modest improvement after a broncodilator. For the initial I had to see a specialist (who asked the same questions my aviation doctor did then charged $300), have a spirometry test, and then have CAA's doctor make a conclusion. I was given a cert but with multiple requirements (carry inhailer when PiC etc), some of which have been relaxed over the years.

This is for mild but definitely present asthma.

My only advice is to find a doctor with their own spirometry machine to save $, have your medical history to give the doctor, and do your best to have your condition under control and be otherwise healthy. Also if you haven't done any work towards a CPL yet wait until you've got the cert in your hand. It could be a long process! Sorry for not having numbers, a call or an email to info@CAA might get you in contact with Dougal or an underling. No real risk doing so in my opinion, who knows maybe just a vague concept like "under control" rather than a firm cutoff applies.

[BubbaMc]

Thanks for the reply mate.

I managed to speak with an aviation doctor in NZ directly, he stated that a marginal reading like mine is not automatic grounds for failing, however an appointment with a specialist for further investigation would be necessary.

I've never had problems getting my class 1 in Australia (though have never needed to have a spirometer test here either). I'm quietly confident I'll be ok.

[Aerozepplin]

NZ seems to be more difficult than some, I had no problem getting a Canadian class 1. Hopefully your Aus history will help.

[Naki Boy]

Hi Bubba,

I have very mild asthma, it has always been a frustration of mine re this spirometry test. They have never picked up through tests that I have asthma. No signs of active asthma was CAAs conclusion. However because as a child I had clear signs of the disease, I was made in the late nineties to to check my peak flow before I went flying, which in my eyes was rediculous. I would peak flow at over 115%. Do you have asthma? If so you could do exercises to improve your lung capacity. Running, swimming are ideal for this, check though with your quack. Do you smoke? This is another issue that could cause a reduction in lung capacity. I have no issues getting a class 1, but I feel for you because I have had to do all these tests in the past to get my medical. Go through the hoops, I'm sure you will get there with it.