The Empire Strikes Back! on Colour Defective Pilots
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"According to CASA, out of 36,000 Australian pilots, about 400 have colour vision deficiency and of those, 140 flew commercial operations."
If 8% of males are CVD, not so sure about the accuracy of the above statement?
If 8% of males are CVD, not so sure about the accuracy of the above statement?
From #190, "Applicants who do not pass the Ishihara test could still be offered a certificate "restricted to day Visual Flight Rules only"."
Is that a new restriction ??
I am confused, because from CASA in their " Medical Certification frequently asked questions" there is the following ;
"Can I get a medical if I am colour blind?
Not if you are going to be an ATC or fly ATPL. OK if going commercial or PPL."
So how the heck can you fly IFR with a 'day 'Visual Flight Rules only' restriction from #190 ?
Is that a new restriction ??
I am confused, because from CASA in their " Medical Certification frequently asked questions" there is the following ;
"Can I get a medical if I am colour blind?
Not if you are going to be an ATC or fly ATPL. OK if going commercial or PPL."
So how the heck can you fly IFR with a 'day 'Visual Flight Rules only' restriction from #190 ?
Every one of these lying bastards needs to be fired right now.
My post reposted from elsewhere .
If ever there was concrete evidence for increasing the levels of uncertainty, ,Peter Gibson provides it:
CASA is deliberately and in a calculated manner spread fear, uncertainty and doubt (FUD) in the minds of colour blind pilots. their employers and potential pilots. This is just plain wrong and nasty **** on so many levels I don't know where to start. It can have absolutely no positive effect on safety levels, in fact if it leads to stress among pilots it willl have the reverse effect.
I have nothing but contempt for the arseholes who constructed this scheme.
To put that another way; even if there is new convincing, indisputable evidence that color blindness is a safety hazard in some aviation related circumstance, then you don't promulgate this fact this way. You present the information as fact, determine the preferred response to it and make a rule.
Furthermore, unless this shyte is stopped in its tracks right now, there will be other assaults on a variety of health conditions, the most obvious next one up is Sleep Apnoea. CASA will require anyone with a BMI over a certain level (ie: Fat) to spend $3000 - $4000 on a sleep test and specialist advice. Readers are invited to list further health issues that could attract attention, There is no end to this mess if it starts.
My post reposted from elsewhere .
The disgusting, hateful, ridiculous thing about this letter is that it does something no competent regulator should ever do. As such the letter is a final damning document that leaves no doubt in my mind that CASA needs major drastic surgery - and fast, or else anyone within that organisation that values their reputation is going to have to leave to avoid being besmirched with the same **** that covers this letter.
And what is the damning thing CASA has done that no regulator should ever do??
It has, by its own calculated and deliberate action, created more uncertainty.
Furthermore, since then it has done nothing to remove that uncertainty, which totally damns it in the eyes of anyone connected with competent public administration.
Make no mistake, the purpose of regulation is to remove as much uncertainty as possible from the conduct of human affairs and the last thing any regulator should do is increase it by its own actions, as CASA continues to do today and why it cannot be trusted to wield any of the powers it purports to have.
It is a disgrace, the letter proves it. Please Minister, take an axe to CASA starting right at the top, followed by the author of this letter and anyone connected with its creation or approval.
And what is the damning thing CASA has done that no regulator should ever do??
It has, by its own calculated and deliberate action, created more uncertainty.
Furthermore, since then it has done nothing to remove that uncertainty, which totally damns it in the eyes of anyone connected with competent public administration.
Make no mistake, the purpose of regulation is to remove as much uncertainty as possible from the conduct of human affairs and the last thing any regulator should do is increase it by its own actions, as CASA continues to do today and why it cannot be trusted to wield any of the powers it purports to have.
It is a disgrace, the letter proves it. Please Minister, take an axe to CASA starting right at the top, followed by the author of this letter and anyone connected with its creation or approval.
Today, CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said the changes would be years in the making.
"There's certainly nothing for any Australian pilot who has colour vision issues to be concerned about," Mr Gibson said.
"We're not grounding any pilots, we're not putting any further restrictions on any pilots, we're simply saying there is some new information out there which we're considering."
"There's certainly nothing for any Australian pilot who has colour vision issues to be concerned about," Mr Gibson said.
"We're not grounding any pilots, we're not putting any further restrictions on any pilots, we're simply saying there is some new information out there which we're considering."
I have nothing but contempt for the arseholes who constructed this scheme.
To put that another way; even if there is new convincing, indisputable evidence that color blindness is a safety hazard in some aviation related circumstance, then you don't promulgate this fact this way. You present the information as fact, determine the preferred response to it and make a rule.
Furthermore, unless this shyte is stopped in its tracks right now, there will be other assaults on a variety of health conditions, the most obvious next one up is Sleep Apnoea. CASA will require anyone with a BMI over a certain level (ie: Fat) to spend $3000 - $4000 on a sleep test and specialist advice. Readers are invited to list further health issues that could attract attention, There is no end to this mess if it starts.
Dr Pape on SBS
Colour-blind pilot challenges licence restrictions
By Greg Dyett
Source World News Radio
19 Jun 2014 - 1:12 PM UPDATED 3 HOURS AGO
A pilot with colour vision deficiency is challenging restrictions on his licence which he says are discriminatory.
First Officer John O'Brien is preparing to challenge the restrictions in a hearing in Brisbane next month.
He's been unable to pass what's known as the control tower signal gun test.
The test is based around the scenario of when red and green lights are used by the control tower when radio contact is lost.
It's considered outdated by some in the aviation sector because pilots can use their mobile phone to communicate with the control tower if radio contact fails.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has written to pilots, airlines and freight companies warning them that it's considering tightening the medical requirements for pilots with colour vision deficiency.
Dr Arthur Pape from the Colour Vision Defective Pilots Association told Greg Dyett, CASA's crackdown could be related to the pending court hearing.
(Click on the audio tab above to hear the full interview)
By Greg Dyett
Source World News Radio
19 Jun 2014 - 1:12 PM UPDATED 3 HOURS AGO
A pilot with colour vision deficiency is challenging restrictions on his licence which he says are discriminatory.
First Officer John O'Brien is preparing to challenge the restrictions in a hearing in Brisbane next month.
He's been unable to pass what's known as the control tower signal gun test.
The test is based around the scenario of when red and green lights are used by the control tower when radio contact is lost.
It's considered outdated by some in the aviation sector because pilots can use their mobile phone to communicate with the control tower if radio contact fails.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has written to pilots, airlines and freight companies warning them that it's considering tightening the medical requirements for pilots with colour vision deficiency.
Dr Arthur Pape from the Colour Vision Defective Pilots Association told Greg Dyett, CASA's crackdown could be related to the pending court hearing.
(Click on the audio tab above to hear the full interview)
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Rightfully miffed.
It's good to see and very right that the 'unions' have taken a position on this; well done. It's fairly easy for them to 'get it', they understand the core issues. Pleased to find the 'media' are taking an interest, I managed to listen to the Pape radio interviews from yesterday and pretty much knowing what Arthur was talking about, I 'listened' to the interviewer; it's clear they don't 'get it'. From a lay perspective the issue must seem as arse about and complex to them, as it is clear cut to 'us'.
For example, Joe Public would not know that if a CVD 'Co-pilot' is flying the sector, the decisions and management of the flight (to all intents and purposes) are made by the CVD pilot; just the same as being Captain. The issue is that CASA say the CVD cannot be 'captain', despite passing all the required 'flight tests' etc. Simply because of a deficiency, identified in a test to establish that there is, indeed a different perception of how colours i.e. red and green are 'seen'. This doesn't mean they can't see them, they just see them differently.
For Joe, the issue is simple one, is this safe? I wonder how many grateful passengers, safely delivered to destination would have known, guessed or cared that the pilot who just nursed a sick beast, through a stormy sky to a soft landing on schedule at dark o'clock, had a little trouble differentiating some shades of colours from others. Joe can relax – the CVD tribe all over the world have been operating very safely, for many years; in Australia for a quarter century.
So despite an impeccable 'safety' track record, and demonstrating that they [CVD] can safely perform their duties, any time, anywhere, in all conditions, thousands of times they can 'act' as captain, but cannot 'be' a captain. Now for some strange reason, CASA intend to challenge a 25 year old tenet, which has served industry well. The fury is generated not by the notion, although unpalatable; but by the default methodology they have elected to use to regress rather than move forward. This despite a clear ICAO guideline, scientific data, a commonwealth funded joint 'hearing' and a 25 year safety record.
.
My bold.
For example, Joe Public would not know that if a CVD 'Co-pilot' is flying the sector, the decisions and management of the flight (to all intents and purposes) are made by the CVD pilot; just the same as being Captain. The issue is that CASA say the CVD cannot be 'captain', despite passing all the required 'flight tests' etc. Simply because of a deficiency, identified in a test to establish that there is, indeed a different perception of how colours i.e. red and green are 'seen'. This doesn't mean they can't see them, they just see them differently.
For Joe, the issue is simple one, is this safe? I wonder how many grateful passengers, safely delivered to destination would have known, guessed or cared that the pilot who just nursed a sick beast, through a stormy sky to a soft landing on schedule at dark o'clock, had a little trouble differentiating some shades of colours from others. Joe can relax – the CVD tribe all over the world have been operating very safely, for many years; in Australia for a quarter century.
So despite an impeccable 'safety' track record, and demonstrating that they [CVD] can safely perform their duties, any time, anywhere, in all conditions, thousands of times they can 'act' as captain, but cannot 'be' a captain. Now for some strange reason, CASA intend to challenge a 25 year old tenet, which has served industry well. The fury is generated not by the notion, although unpalatable; but by the default methodology they have elected to use to regress rather than move forward. This despite a clear ICAO guideline, scientific data, a commonwealth funded joint 'hearing' and a 25 year safety record.
“The applicant shall be required to demonstrate the ability to perceive readily those colours the perception of which is necessary for the safe performance of duties.” (ICAO Convention Annex 1 – Chapter 6.2.4.2).
5) Australia presently has the most modern, scientifically proven, liberal applications. This has been the result of two successful legal challenges to the implementation of the ACPS. [Refers - Pape v CAA (1987). Denison v CAA (1989)]. A summary of the AAT findings and comparison to ICAO CV standard was published in (article) the Journal of Australasian Society of Aerospace Medicine, 2011.
6) The authority decided that the Pape ruling could only apply to the appellant alone. This arbitrary ruling denied other CVD pilots the right to fly at night; and, by extension, the ability to pursue careers in aviation was denied.
7) By mutual agreement between the concerned parties, the Commonwealth funded, second test case 'Denison' was to be wide ranging. The scope of evidence widened to include all forms of CVD through all levels of professional pilot medical certification. The case ran for 35 days and examined every conceivable use of colour in aviation. To this date, it remains the largest, independent, in depth analysis and examination of aviation colour vision standards in the world.
8) Since the Denison decision, Australian CVD pilots have been free to progress to all levels of professional flying including international airline operations. Before Pape and Denison, many pilots would have even been restricted in their approval to fly even a light aircraft at night.
9) Since the Denison ruling, CVD pilots have consistently demonstrated the ability necessary for the safe performance of duties through regular, rigorous flight and simulator assessments
5) Australia presently has the most modern, scientifically proven, liberal applications. This has been the result of two successful legal challenges to the implementation of the ACPS. [Refers - Pape v CAA (1987). Denison v CAA (1989)]. A summary of the AAT findings and comparison to ICAO CV standard was published in (article) the Journal of Australasian Society of Aerospace Medicine, 2011.
6) The authority decided that the Pape ruling could only apply to the appellant alone. This arbitrary ruling denied other CVD pilots the right to fly at night; and, by extension, the ability to pursue careers in aviation was denied.
7) By mutual agreement between the concerned parties, the Commonwealth funded, second test case 'Denison' was to be wide ranging. The scope of evidence widened to include all forms of CVD through all levels of professional pilot medical certification. The case ran for 35 days and examined every conceivable use of colour in aviation. To this date, it remains the largest, independent, in depth analysis and examination of aviation colour vision standards in the world.
8) Since the Denison decision, Australian CVD pilots have been free to progress to all levels of professional flying including international airline operations. Before Pape and Denison, many pilots would have even been restricted in their approval to fly even a light aircraft at night.
9) Since the Denison ruling, CVD pilots have consistently demonstrated the ability necessary for the safe performance of duties through regular, rigorous flight and simulator assessments
My bold.
Last edited by Kharon; 20th Jun 2014 at 01:46. Reason: Sorry - can't grab the links...NFI Y
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Posted elsewhere due mergeded posts.
It would appear that CasA are shirking any hint at adherence to the recommendations, namely recommendation 30 below, which is self explanatory and contradictory given the letter previously posted, Extract below.
The action taken by CasA provides that the applicant must pay to prove his stated previously satisfactory condition and clearly moves the burden of proof from the regulator to the pilot and fails to give the DAME the recommended freedoms to exercise his/her ability to renew aviation medical certificates. If the DAME recommends the pilot be further assessed it is his responsibility, not CasA’s.
No doubt these will become "renew by CASA only" medicals and the AVMED Branch continue unabated and unshackled as before.
Is this the first Nigerian in the woodpile?
" QUOTE" 30. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority devolve to Designated Aviation Medical Examiners the ability to renew aviation medical certificates (for Classes 1, 2, and 3) where the applicant meets the required standard at the time of the medical examination. "QUOTE’
"QUOTE" At the resent time, CASA is aware that CAD testing in Australia is only offered by Dr Elizabeth Livingstone, Designated Aviation Opthalmologist at the Livingstone Eye Clinic in Sydney (61-2) 9362-5820. Please note appointments are necessaryand there will be a fee charged. Any expense incurred will be your responsibility. "QUOTE"
The action taken by CasA provides that the applicant must pay to prove his stated previously satisfactory condition and clearly moves the burden of proof from the regulator to the pilot and fails to give the DAME the recommended freedoms to exercise his/her ability to renew aviation medical certificates. If the DAME recommends the pilot be further assessed it is his responsibility, not CasA’s.
No doubt these will become "renew by CASA only" medicals and the AVMED Branch continue unabated and unshackled as before.
Is this the first Nigerian in the woodpile?
" QUOTE" 30. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority devolve to Designated Aviation Medical Examiners the ability to renew aviation medical certificates (for Classes 1, 2, and 3) where the applicant meets the required standard at the time of the medical examination. "QUOTE’
"QUOTE" At the resent time, CASA is aware that CAD testing in Australia is only offered by Dr Elizabeth Livingstone, Designated Aviation Opthalmologist at the Livingstone Eye Clinic in Sydney (61-2) 9362-5820. Please note appointments are necessaryand there will be a fee charged. Any expense incurred will be your responsibility. "QUOTE"
Last edited by Frank Arouet; 20th Jun 2014 at 00:16. Reason: Attempted but failed to correct heading.
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More spin and lies from CASA
Vision row: CASA clears the air (The Australian)
And two days ago...
Colour blind pilots will not be grounded in Australia following study: CASA
How does Mr Gibson explain Bill Smith's letter? 
Or how about the extra restrictions they imposed on O'Brien's medical earlier this year before he had even got to the AAT?
Or how about the new restrictions on their own website?
Medical certification frequently asked questions
Mr Gibson, the above statement makes it clear that CASA has already reviewed the CVD policies and there was no consultation with the industry. While the "regulations" themselves may not have changed, the testing processes and the colour vision waivers that have existed since 1989 definitely have.
If the three levels of CVD testing are failed, new Class 1 applicants will be denied certification. Class 2 applicants will be restricted to Day VFR only. This has not been the case for over 25 years!
If Bill Smith's letter is anything to go by, it is only a matter of time before existing medical holders receive the same treatment.
CASA's statements to the media are nothing but pure spin and lies and someone needs to be held accountable.... Where's the "Adjunct Associate Professor" been this week?
It would seem that the only "pending review" that CASA is waiting on is the outcome of the O'Brien AAT case. If that is the case, then it should be funded as a test case accordingly, just like Denison in 1989.
THE Civil Aviation Safety Authority is attempting to hose down a potential row over colour-vision deficient pilots, saying it is not about to ground anyone and is not necessarily moving to change its rules.
The regulator found itself under fire after it wrote to pilots and air operator certificate (AOC) holders about the issue.
In the letter to AOC holders, CASA said recent medical research had indicated the safety-related implications of an individual’s CVD may be more significant than initially thought.
It raised the possibility that some pilots could be more severely affected, from a safety point of view, than was believed to be the case when their medical certificates were issued.
“CASA is reviewing the situation and will consider what further action, if any, may need to be taken on the basis of that review, at which time affected medical certificate holders will be notified accordingly,’’ the regulator wrote.
“In the meantime, CASA has written to all potentially affected pilots advising them to consider whether it is safe for them to continue to exercise their flight crew privileges subject only to the existing CVD related condition, and encouraging them to seek the advice of their personal physician or Designated Aviation Medical Examiner about any adjustments that should be made to their flying practices, pending the outcome of CASA’s review.’’
The letter raised the ire of pilots and resulted in the issue being raised during a recent Senate estimates committee.
Pilots with colour-vision deficiencies have been able to work as co-pilots for 25 years following breakthrough appeals to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, and critics of the CASA move say there is no evidence to suggest this has caused any safety problems.
The Virgin Independent Pilots Association attacked any move to introduce new rules as discriminatory and said it would fail to deliver improved safety.
VIPA was worried that Class 1 pilots with CVD would have to inform their employers about their condition and might be forced to undergo future testing.
It said this could jeopardise the careers of hundreds of commercial pilots across the country even though they had flown thousands of hours without incident.
CASA estimates the issue affects about 400 pilots, including 140 commercial pilots. It said this week it had not grounded any pilots with colour-vision issues and had not yet decided to make changes to the rules.
“CASA is considering a range of international research in relation to colour vision — this is prudent and responsible action by the safety regulator in response to the evolving medical understanding of colour vision issues in aviation, which includes the development of a new computer based test,’’ spokesman Peter Gibson said.
“If any change is proposed to the colour vision rules there will be full consultation with the aviation industry — this is a comprehensive and lengthy process.’’
Mr Gibson said CASA wrote to the pilots and operators to make them aware of the international research.
“CASA is not suggesting CVD pilots cannot fly or that airlines or other operators should ground them — we are simply asking that pilots and operators consider if there are any safety issues in relation to current operations.”
The regulator found itself under fire after it wrote to pilots and air operator certificate (AOC) holders about the issue.
In the letter to AOC holders, CASA said recent medical research had indicated the safety-related implications of an individual’s CVD may be more significant than initially thought.
It raised the possibility that some pilots could be more severely affected, from a safety point of view, than was believed to be the case when their medical certificates were issued.
“CASA is reviewing the situation and will consider what further action, if any, may need to be taken on the basis of that review, at which time affected medical certificate holders will be notified accordingly,’’ the regulator wrote.
“In the meantime, CASA has written to all potentially affected pilots advising them to consider whether it is safe for them to continue to exercise their flight crew privileges subject only to the existing CVD related condition, and encouraging them to seek the advice of their personal physician or Designated Aviation Medical Examiner about any adjustments that should be made to their flying practices, pending the outcome of CASA’s review.’’
The letter raised the ire of pilots and resulted in the issue being raised during a recent Senate estimates committee.
Pilots with colour-vision deficiencies have been able to work as co-pilots for 25 years following breakthrough appeals to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal, and critics of the CASA move say there is no evidence to suggest this has caused any safety problems.
The Virgin Independent Pilots Association attacked any move to introduce new rules as discriminatory and said it would fail to deliver improved safety.
VIPA was worried that Class 1 pilots with CVD would have to inform their employers about their condition and might be forced to undergo future testing.
It said this could jeopardise the careers of hundreds of commercial pilots across the country even though they had flown thousands of hours without incident.
CASA estimates the issue affects about 400 pilots, including 140 commercial pilots. It said this week it had not grounded any pilots with colour-vision issues and had not yet decided to make changes to the rules.
“CASA is considering a range of international research in relation to colour vision — this is prudent and responsible action by the safety regulator in response to the evolving medical understanding of colour vision issues in aviation, which includes the development of a new computer based test,’’ spokesman Peter Gibson said.
“If any change is proposed to the colour vision rules there will be full consultation with the aviation industry — this is a comprehensive and lengthy process.’’
Mr Gibson said CASA wrote to the pilots and operators to make them aware of the international research.
“CASA is not suggesting CVD pilots cannot fly or that airlines or other operators should ground them — we are simply asking that pilots and operators consider if there are any safety issues in relation to current operations.”
Colour blind pilots will not be grounded in Australia following study: CASA
Today, CASA spokesman Peter Gibson said the changes would be years in the making.
"There's certainly nothing for any Australian pilot who has colour vision issues to be concerned about," Mr Gibson said.
"We're not grounding any pilots, we're not putting any further restrictions on any pilots, we're simply saying there is some new information out there which we're considering."
"There's certainly nothing for any Australian pilot who has colour vision issues to be concerned about," Mr Gibson said.
"We're not grounding any pilots, we're not putting any further restrictions on any pilots, we're simply saying there is some new information out there which we're considering."
No not grounding but CASA have taken my ATPL from me. I did a "Real Life" night IFR renewal in 1997. I was assessed as being colour safe which gave me the condition "11" that has been accepted by CASA ever since. The testing officer was and still is an approved CASA ATO.
In 2009 Pooshan tried to take my ATPL but when challenged they reversed the decision immediately. Make no mistake they are aiming to remove all privileges.
Don't be fooled by the spin doctors. There is a definite agenda here by CASA.
I fly with guys that have 150 hours and still don't have a car licence and yet they want to take my 12000+ hours LHS Jet out of the industry.
Sorry, I forgot I am the "Safety Issue" here.
In 2009 Pooshan tried to take my ATPL but when challenged they reversed the decision immediately. Make no mistake they are aiming to remove all privileges.
Don't be fooled by the spin doctors. There is a definite agenda here by CASA.
I fly with guys that have 150 hours and still don't have a car licence and yet they want to take my 12000+ hours LHS Jet out of the industry.
Sorry, I forgot I am the "Safety Issue" here.
Or how about the new restrictions on their own website?
Medical certification frequently asked questions
How does CASA deal with pilots with colour vision deficiency?
CASA has reviewed the application of Civil Aviation Safety Regulation Part 67 – which covers the medical certification of pilots - as it relates to pilots with colour vision deficiency (CVD).
Initial issue of class 1 medicals
A pilot must undergo all three stages of tests until a pass is achieved before a class 1 medical certificate can be issued in accordance with regulation 67.150 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations.
Initial issue of class 2 medicals
If the Ishihara test is failed, a certificate will be offered restricted to day VFR only. If the applicant wants this restriction removed, they must pass one of the tests as per Part 67.
Class 1 medical renewals
No immediate change. CASA will write to affected class 1 medical holders and the major airlines advising them to consider the impact their CVD may have on their flying, and such other obligations as they may have to inform their employer of a condition which may affect their ability to safely perform their duties. CVD Class 1 pilots may need to undergo a CAD test in the future.
CASA has reviewed the application of Civil Aviation Safety Regulation Part 67 – which covers the medical certification of pilots - as it relates to pilots with colour vision deficiency (CVD).
Initial issue of class 1 medicals
A pilot must undergo all three stages of tests until a pass is achieved before a class 1 medical certificate can be issued in accordance with regulation 67.150 of the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations.
Initial issue of class 2 medicals
If the Ishihara test is failed, a certificate will be offered restricted to day VFR only. If the applicant wants this restriction removed, they must pass one of the tests as per Part 67.
Class 1 medical renewals
No immediate change. CASA will write to affected class 1 medical holders and the major airlines advising them to consider the impact their CVD may have on their flying, and such other obligations as they may have to inform their employer of a condition which may affect their ability to safely perform their duties. CVD Class 1 pilots may need to undergo a CAD test in the future.
If the three levels of CVD testing are failed, new Class 1 applicants will be denied certification. Class 2 applicants will be restricted to Day VFR only. This has not been the case for over 25 years!
If Bill Smith's letter is anything to go by, it is only a matter of time before existing medical holders receive the same treatment.
CASA's statements to the media are nothing but pure spin and lies and someone needs to be held accountable.... Where's the "Adjunct Associate Professor" been this week?
It would seem that the only "pending review" that CASA is waiting on is the outcome of the O'Brien AAT case. If that is the case, then it should be funded as a test case accordingly, just like Denison in 1989.
Brissy, the circumlocutions used by CASA lead me to ask the one final question which goes to the heart of the problems of CASA - trust, uncertainty and all the rest.
Could I be forgiven for believing that any communication, written or spoken, from CASA cannot be relied upon?
To put that another way, could I be forgiven for wondering if every CASA communication is a lie?
This is why I said that anyone who values their reputation who works for CASA is going to have to consider whether their reputation can survive employment by CASA.
The entire colour blindness matter needs to be immediately vacated by CASA. Not to do so brings the entire organisation into disrepute, if it wasn't in disrepute already.
Could I be forgiven for believing that any communication, written or spoken, from CASA cannot be relied upon?
To put that another way, could I be forgiven for wondering if every CASA communication is a lie?
This is why I said that anyone who values their reputation who works for CASA is going to have to consider whether their reputation can survive employment by CASA.
The entire colour blindness matter needs to be immediately vacated by CASA. Not to do so brings the entire organisation into disrepute, if it wasn't in disrepute already.
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Statistical relevance.
Kahren, Arthur and Sunfish, ya blood's worth bottling!
So, we have (at least) 400 cvd pilots in Australia. Let's just assume that each of these pilots has flown an average of 5,000 hrs in commercial operations ( I have flown 14,000+ on a professional ticket). This means that there has been at least 400x5,000 hrs flown, in Australia alone, by cvd pilots. That there has been NOT One incident or accident attributed to cvd over this statistically significant period means that ther is NO 'safety case'.
This is 2 frickin' MILLION flying hours in Oz alone! Consider also the number of cvd pilots in the rest of the world and you get an idea of the incredible statistical weight of evidence that says that these pustules of filth in CASA are totally wrong.
We have the example of the John McC in Senate estimates bleating on about "safety cases" and some singular obscure accident ina B727 which did not attribute the cause to cvd anyway. Then, they cite some "medical research" as backing their case. Really? In fact, the research actually deals with the diversity of cvd treatment across a variety of administrations and does NOT even make a judgement regarding safety issues and cvd.
Clearly, these clowns are full of sh!t. An argument such as theirs would be totally torn to shreds in a year 11 Engish class. Do they SERIOUSLY think that Senator Fawcett and rest rest of the thinking community would not see right through this. The truth is that the fraternity of DAMEs have no confidence in the current regime. The beauty of this is that these d!ckheads have pretty much signed their career death warrants.
So, we have (at least) 400 cvd pilots in Australia. Let's just assume that each of these pilots has flown an average of 5,000 hrs in commercial operations ( I have flown 14,000+ on a professional ticket). This means that there has been at least 400x5,000 hrs flown, in Australia alone, by cvd pilots. That there has been NOT One incident or accident attributed to cvd over this statistically significant period means that ther is NO 'safety case'.
This is 2 frickin' MILLION flying hours in Oz alone! Consider also the number of cvd pilots in the rest of the world and you get an idea of the incredible statistical weight of evidence that says that these pustules of filth in CASA are totally wrong.
We have the example of the John McC in Senate estimates bleating on about "safety cases" and some singular obscure accident ina B727 which did not attribute the cause to cvd anyway. Then, they cite some "medical research" as backing their case. Really? In fact, the research actually deals with the diversity of cvd treatment across a variety of administrations and does NOT even make a judgement regarding safety issues and cvd.
Clearly, these clowns are full of sh!t. An argument such as theirs would be totally torn to shreds in a year 11 Engish class. Do they SERIOUSLY think that Senator Fawcett and rest rest of the thinking community would not see right through this. The truth is that the fraternity of DAMEs have no confidence in the current regime. The beauty of this is that these d!ckheads have pretty much signed their career death warrants.
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The thought crossed my mind...how many accidents in the past 25 years can be attributed to Non colour deficient pilots?....compared to accidents that can be attributed to colour deficient pilots?...
answer Lots and lots...and Non !!
Therefore using CAsA and the skulls oft stated policy of safety management
should it not be the case that you MUST be colour deficient before you can gain a pilots licence????
answer Lots and lots...and Non !!
Therefore using CAsA and the skulls oft stated policy of safety management
should it not be the case that you MUST be colour deficient before you can gain a pilots licence????
[T]he research actually deals with the diversity of cvd treatment across a variety of administrations and does NOT even make a judgement regarding safety issues and cvd.
INTRODUCTION: Color is an important characteristic of the aviation environment. Pilots must rapidly and accurately differentiate and identify colors. …
This point is critically important: The premise is false.
The attack must be on that premise (and the intellectual dishonesty apparent in the failure to test the validity of the basic premise). If you focus your energy on the efficacy of the different tests to confirm the existence and severity of colour deficiencies, you are falling into the trap of implicitly affirming the validity of the basic premise.
It's no different from a paper that says:
INTRODUCTION: Gravity is an important characteristic of the aviation environment. Pilots must rapidly and accurately sense the exact level of 'g' forces on their aircraft ...
Thread Starter
Hot off the press: ABC's 7.30 Report Queensland tonight:
Queensland pilot challenges CASA over colour blindness restrictions - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
Queensland pilot challenges CASA over colour blindness restrictions - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)
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ABC 7.30 Report on CVD Pilots
Well done to the ABC Qld 7.30 Report 
A great story featuring interviews with Senator Fawcett, John O'Brien, Dr Rob Liddell & VIPA Executive Director Simon O'Hara.
See www.cvdpa.com for a full summary of all the recent developments!
A great story featuring interviews with Senator Fawcett, John O'Brien, Dr Rob Liddell & VIPA Executive Director Simon O'Hara.
See www.cvdpa.com for a full summary of all the recent developments!
Last edited by brissypilot; 20th Jun 2014 at 13:19.
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Bravo Aunty, well done troops.
Top marks ABC Queensland; and nicely done boys.
The Creampuff nutshell. As usual, Creamy on song and bang on target.
n) a previous statement or proposition from which another is inferred or follows as a conclusion.
v) base an argument, theory, or undertaking on.
The proof of a conclusion depends on both the truth of the premises and the validity of the argument.
The 35 day Denison hearing covered the CVD issue comprehensively; there is little to further discuss except the 25 year safety record. Even that is not really cause for another expensive, time consuming 're-hash'. There are much more serious medical issues for the minister to be concerned with, the evidence is contained within the submissions to and conclusions drawn within the Forsyth report. CASA Avmed is a basket case, the butt of DAME jokes and about as much use as a chocolate fire guard; this we could live with. But a short study of the Hempel fatal accident clearly defines the rampant incompetence, a willingness to shade facts as, where and when required. This is not the purpose of medical ADMINISTRATION. Neither is it 'their' job to question and re examine every medical certificate extended; either the DAME are to be trusted or they are not.
Someone may know how many countries do not have the additional filtering and subjective judgement of fitness to fly system which is inflicted on Australia. In the USA for example – the medical examiner simply checks the candidate and signs off the certificate – done and dusted. I expect there is a layer of administration to 'rule' on disputes, but by and large, the examiner is trusted to know whether a pilot is fit or not.
The Forsyth review identifies problems in each and every CASA department, not least of all with Avmed. The entire CASA system from board to clerical is dysfunctional, moribund and at least morally corrupt. This edifice as it stands costs an enormous amount to sustain and has not provided one single, tangible 'safety' outcome. Apart from wasting millions, destroying business, allowing travesties like Hempel, persecuting the likes of Reddish and Quadrio, shutting down operations like Barrier and Polar; they also have the brass to 'flip the bird' at the Senate, ignore Forsyth and will, without doubt, treat the Truss efforts with thinly veiled contempt.
Save the public purse from the O'Brien (CVD) matter, that can be dealt with without another 35 day 'hearing'; Minister, if you are serious about reform, open an inquiry and learn the sad truth of why your aviation industry is the object of scorn, ridicule and sympathy, in equal amounts, from it's peers.
To shove a wet noodle up a tigers arse one needs determination, fortitude, a bloody big stick and balls; big ones. Turn the Senate team loose minister, let them run a real inquiry. Grand-mama always said "it's better to take the lid off than have the pot boil over".
Saturday mixed metaphors, sure – but why not.
Selah.
The Creampuff nutshell. As usual, Creamy on song and bang on target.
The premise is false.
This point is critically important:
The - premise - is false.
The attack must be on that premise (and the intellectual dishonesty apparent in the failure to test the validity of the basic premise). If you focus your energy on the efficacy of the different tests to confirm the existence and severity of colour deficiencies, you are falling into the trap of implicitly affirming the validity of the basic premise.
This point is critically important:
The - premise - is false.
The attack must be on that premise (and the intellectual dishonesty apparent in the failure to test the validity of the basic premise). If you focus your energy on the efficacy of the different tests to confirm the existence and severity of colour deficiencies, you are falling into the trap of implicitly affirming the validity of the basic premise.
v) base an argument, theory, or undertaking on.
The proof of a conclusion depends on both the truth of the premises and the validity of the argument.
The ICAO nutshell.
“The applicant shall be required to demonstrate the ability to perceive readily those colours the perception of which is necessary for the safe performance of duties.” (ICAO Convention Annex 1 – Chapter 6.2.4.2).
“The applicant shall be required to demonstrate the ability to perceive readily those colours the perception of which is necessary for the safe performance of duties.” (ICAO Convention Annex 1 – Chapter 6.2.4.2).
The CASA Scientific approach nutshell.
RO - [the] new "paperwork reducing" annual 8 page medical questionnaire that has most AMEs in this country and others rolling their eyes in disgust and dismay.
Have YOU had any "funny turns"?
RO - [the] new "paperwork reducing" annual 8 page medical questionnaire that has most AMEs in this country and others rolling their eyes in disgust and dismay.
Have YOU had any "funny turns"?
Someone may know how many countries do not have the additional filtering and subjective judgement of fitness to fly system which is inflicted on Australia. In the USA for example – the medical examiner simply checks the candidate and signs off the certificate – done and dusted. I expect there is a layer of administration to 'rule' on disputes, but by and large, the examiner is trusted to know whether a pilot is fit or not.
The Forsyth review identifies problems in each and every CASA department, not least of all with Avmed. The entire CASA system from board to clerical is dysfunctional, moribund and at least morally corrupt. This edifice as it stands costs an enormous amount to sustain and has not provided one single, tangible 'safety' outcome. Apart from wasting millions, destroying business, allowing travesties like Hempel, persecuting the likes of Reddish and Quadrio, shutting down operations like Barrier and Polar; they also have the brass to 'flip the bird' at the Senate, ignore Forsyth and will, without doubt, treat the Truss efforts with thinly veiled contempt.
Save the public purse from the O'Brien (CVD) matter, that can be dealt with without another 35 day 'hearing'; Minister, if you are serious about reform, open an inquiry and learn the sad truth of why your aviation industry is the object of scorn, ridicule and sympathy, in equal amounts, from it's peers.
To shove a wet noodle up a tigers arse one needs determination, fortitude, a bloody big stick and balls; big ones. Turn the Senate team loose minister, let them run a real inquiry. Grand-mama always said "it's better to take the lid off than have the pot boil over".
Saturday mixed metaphors, sure – but why not.
Selah.
CAsA true colours exposed
Queensland pilot challenges CASA over colour blindness restrictions
Hundreds of pilots with colour vision deficiency fear they could be grounded by CASA as a Queensland pilot mounts a legal challenge to restrictions on his licence.
Maria Hatzakis
Source: 7.30 Queensland | Duration: 7min 34sec
Topics: eyes, air-transport, brisbane-4000
Transcript
MATT WORDSWORTH: Our love of flying seems to know no bounds with passenger numbers expected to reach record levels again at Brisbane airport this year. But commercial pilots who are colour blind fear they could be grounded due to their condition. The civil aviation safety authority has written to them and their employers warning that it's considering new research into the safety of flying with a colour vision deficiency. While CASA says existing pilots have no immediate cause for concern Unions say the authority's already tightened flying restrictions for new pilots. The furore comes as a Queensland commercial pilot prepares for a legal challenge next month to have restrictions on his licence removed. Maria Hatzakis reports.
(FOOTAGE OF PILOTS GETTING READY TO TAKE OFF)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Some 36,000 pilots are licensed to fly in Australia about 400 of those are colour blind. There's been debate for decades over whether, a pilot who can't tell the difference between some colours can still fly safely.
DAVID FAWCETT, LIBERAL SENATOR: There are two schools of thought. There are some people who because of the theory that says the ability to distinguish red and green is important have always maintained that you must not allow somebody with a colour vision deficiency to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN, PILOT: Even when it comes to driving a car for example, there's colours everywhere and it's the same with aviation as well but there's not one instance in aviation where it's critical to actually be able to name colours that you see.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN PLANE ON RUNWAY)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Pilots with a colour deficiency have been able to co-pilot commercial planes and fly recreationally in Australia for the past 25 years but they're banned from captaining a multi-crew commercial plane. Queensland pilot John O'Brien believes that's unfair. He's launched a legal challenge in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal to force the Civil Aviation Safety Authority to remove restrictions on his licence.
JOHN O'BRIEN: At the moment because of my current colour vision restrictions, it prevents me from becoming a captain so, even though I've now flown as a first officer for over 2000 hours in, for the past four years and along with the advice and recommendations of all the colleagues that I fly with, my medical restrictions still prevent me from doing that.
MARIA HATZAKIS: But as next month's hearing approached CASA tightened regulations for new pilots making it harder for those with colour vision deficiency to fly.
(FOOTAGE OF LETTER FROM CASA)
MARIA HATZAKIS: It also wrote to existing colour blind pilots and their employers, warning them it's considering new research and may need to take action.
SIMON O'HARA, VIRGIN INDEPENDENT PILOTS ASSN.: We have been approached by members, who have received these letters, they're very disturbed by these developments, and this has come out of the blue for them so they've contacted this office in quite an agitated state.
JOHN O'BRIEN: People are I think certainly upset they're scared, about what their future is now in aviation. I know quite a few guys who are in exactly the same situation as myself they've been flying for many thousands of hours over many many years and now they got this prospect of having their careers ended, all on the opinions of a few individuals within CASA.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA says it will be presenting expert medical advice at the Tribunal hearing next month which supports its position and while it hasn't grounded any pilots it's trying to keep them and their employers informed. Unions are worried.
SIMON O'HARA: And they refer to medical evidence, we haven't seen that, they haven't engaged with us to talk us through or provide us with articles relating to what they rely upon in so far as that medical evidence.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN COCKPIT)
SIMON O'HARA: These pilots have to undergo rigorous check and line training, they've flown thousands of hours, there's no evidence that they are any different to any other pilot and we view this very seriously.
MARIA HATZAKIS: The Australian Federation of Air pilots believes it's unreasonable and inappropriate that CASA is asking companies to consider their pilots' fitness to fly. Qantas and Virgin are considering the letters while REX Airlines says it's very concerned.
GRAPHIC:
and is "not capable" and "in no way qualified to make any assessment" of the research.
ROB LIDDELL, FORMER CASA CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER: It's very unusual for a regulator to tell people to consider whether they themselves thought they might be unsafe or not and the regulator usually sets the standard and that's the end of it.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Rob Liddell was Director of aviation medicine at CASA or what was then known as the Civil Aviation Authority for about a decade from 1988. He can't see any reason for tougher rules.
ROB LIDDELL: In Australia where our colour vision standard has been incredibly relaxed since probably 1990s early 1990, we now have thousands of colour defective pilots who would have thousands and thousands of hours of flying and we're not actually seeing, any accidents or incidents related to that, so it's a bit surprising that CASA should suddenly take this line.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Liberal Senator David Fawcett is a former flying instructor and test pilot.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think the letters cause quite a deal of uncertainty for both the pilots and for their employers. They raise a doubt in people's minds about the safety of these pilots and yet the last 25 years has shown that these pilots have operated, single pilot, as part of a crew quite safely with no incidents.
MARIA HATZAKIS: He's written to Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss who's responsible for CASA urging him to conduct a study based on 25 years of accident free flying. He also believes the Commonwealth should help John O'Brien.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think it would be appropriate for the Commonwealth to fund the O'Brien case before the AAT so that both sides of the argument can bring forth their experts, the evidence can be laid out in an unbiased and complete manner before the AAT and they can then make a decision.
ROB LIDDELL: I would have thought it's a beautiful opportunity to conduct research. Keep these people employed follow them through very closely so we might be able to tell the rest of the world ultimately that there appears to be no reason why a colour defective pilot can't fly safely.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA maintains any further changes would be a long way off. But that hasn't settled the nerves of those who've been seeking even more freedom to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN: When I first applied at the AAT it was really an attempt to be able to progress my career. So they're actually turning it into a fight of not just the ability to progress my career but now just the ability to even maintain my career as it stands.
MATT WORDSWORTH: And no-one from CASA was available to comment on camera.
Not like Peter to be lost for words??
Hundreds of pilots with colour vision deficiency fear they could be grounded by CASA as a Queensland pilot mounts a legal challenge to restrictions on his licence.
Maria Hatzakis
Source: 7.30 Queensland | Duration: 7min 34sec
Topics: eyes, air-transport, brisbane-4000
Transcript
MATT WORDSWORTH: Our love of flying seems to know no bounds with passenger numbers expected to reach record levels again at Brisbane airport this year. But commercial pilots who are colour blind fear they could be grounded due to their condition. The civil aviation safety authority has written to them and their employers warning that it's considering new research into the safety of flying with a colour vision deficiency. While CASA says existing pilots have no immediate cause for concern Unions say the authority's already tightened flying restrictions for new pilots. The furore comes as a Queensland commercial pilot prepares for a legal challenge next month to have restrictions on his licence removed. Maria Hatzakis reports.
(FOOTAGE OF PILOTS GETTING READY TO TAKE OFF)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Some 36,000 pilots are licensed to fly in Australia about 400 of those are colour blind. There's been debate for decades over whether, a pilot who can't tell the difference between some colours can still fly safely.
DAVID FAWCETT, LIBERAL SENATOR: There are two schools of thought. There are some people who because of the theory that says the ability to distinguish red and green is important have always maintained that you must not allow somebody with a colour vision deficiency to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN, PILOT: Even when it comes to driving a car for example, there's colours everywhere and it's the same with aviation as well but there's not one instance in aviation where it's critical to actually be able to name colours that you see.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN PLANE ON RUNWAY)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Pilots with a colour deficiency have been able to co-pilot commercial planes and fly recreationally in Australia for the past 25 years but they're banned from captaining a multi-crew commercial plane. Queensland pilot John O'Brien believes that's unfair. He's launched a legal challenge in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal to force the Civil Aviation Safety Authority to remove restrictions on his licence.
JOHN O'BRIEN: At the moment because of my current colour vision restrictions, it prevents me from becoming a captain so, even though I've now flown as a first officer for over 2000 hours in, for the past four years and along with the advice and recommendations of all the colleagues that I fly with, my medical restrictions still prevent me from doing that.
MARIA HATZAKIS: But as next month's hearing approached CASA tightened regulations for new pilots making it harder for those with colour vision deficiency to fly.
(FOOTAGE OF LETTER FROM CASA)
MARIA HATZAKIS: It also wrote to existing colour blind pilots and their employers, warning them it's considering new research and may need to take action.
SIMON O'HARA, VIRGIN INDEPENDENT PILOTS ASSN.: We have been approached by members, who have received these letters, they're very disturbed by these developments, and this has come out of the blue for them so they've contacted this office in quite an agitated state.
JOHN O'BRIEN: People are I think certainly upset they're scared, about what their future is now in aviation. I know quite a few guys who are in exactly the same situation as myself they've been flying for many thousands of hours over many many years and now they got this prospect of having their careers ended, all on the opinions of a few individuals within CASA.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA says it will be presenting expert medical advice at the Tribunal hearing next month which supports its position and while it hasn't grounded any pilots it's trying to keep them and their employers informed. Unions are worried.
SIMON O'HARA: And they refer to medical evidence, we haven't seen that, they haven't engaged with us to talk us through or provide us with articles relating to what they rely upon in so far as that medical evidence.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN COCKPIT)
SIMON O'HARA: These pilots have to undergo rigorous check and line training, they've flown thousands of hours, there's no evidence that they are any different to any other pilot and we view this very seriously.
MARIA HATZAKIS: The Australian Federation of Air pilots believes it's unreasonable and inappropriate that CASA is asking companies to consider their pilots' fitness to fly. Qantas and Virgin are considering the letters while REX Airlines says it's very concerned.
GRAPHIC:
and is "not capable" and "in no way qualified to make any assessment" of the research.
ROB LIDDELL, FORMER CASA CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER: It's very unusual for a regulator to tell people to consider whether they themselves thought they might be unsafe or not and the regulator usually sets the standard and that's the end of it.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Rob Liddell was Director of aviation medicine at CASA or what was then known as the Civil Aviation Authority for about a decade from 1988. He can't see any reason for tougher rules.
ROB LIDDELL: In Australia where our colour vision standard has been incredibly relaxed since probably 1990s early 1990, we now have thousands of colour defective pilots who would have thousands and thousands of hours of flying and we're not actually seeing, any accidents or incidents related to that, so it's a bit surprising that CASA should suddenly take this line.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Liberal Senator David Fawcett is a former flying instructor and test pilot.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think the letters cause quite a deal of uncertainty for both the pilots and for their employers. They raise a doubt in people's minds about the safety of these pilots and yet the last 25 years has shown that these pilots have operated, single pilot, as part of a crew quite safely with no incidents.
MARIA HATZAKIS: He's written to Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss who's responsible for CASA urging him to conduct a study based on 25 years of accident free flying. He also believes the Commonwealth should help John O'Brien.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think it would be appropriate for the Commonwealth to fund the O'Brien case before the AAT so that both sides of the argument can bring forth their experts, the evidence can be laid out in an unbiased and complete manner before the AAT and they can then make a decision.
ROB LIDDELL: I would have thought it's a beautiful opportunity to conduct research. Keep these people employed follow them through very closely so we might be able to tell the rest of the world ultimately that there appears to be no reason why a colour defective pilot can't fly safely.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA maintains any further changes would be a long way off. But that hasn't settled the nerves of those who've been seeking even more freedom to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN: When I first applied at the AAT it was really an attempt to be able to progress my career. So they're actually turning it into a fight of not just the ability to progress my career but now just the ability to even maintain my career as it stands.
MATT WORDSWORTH: And no-one from CASA was available to comment on camera.
Not like Peter to be lost for words??
Thread Starter
Hi Folks. I'm posting the following on behalf of a pilot who wants to remain anonymous, for fear of retribution by CASA. It is a letter the pilot has sent to three senators. I know it has all been said before, but it warrants repeating.
Cheers,
A.P.
June 20 2014
My name is XXXX. I am a professional pilot of 40 plus years standing and 17,000 accident free flying hours; bar one successfully mitigated helicopter engine failure in 1979. Flying has always been my passion and my life. I currently work in an overseas environment although I always maintain my Australian licences.
In 1970 when I took my first aviation medical it was quite a shock to be classified as colour vision abnormal as there had been no previous indication of any detrimental effect on my life thus far. However, this medical assessment had a significant impact on me in many ways for the rest of my life.
Despite a sense of discrimination and imposition thereafter on behalf of the aviation regulator, I, like many other similarly assessed pilots, persisted in the pursuit of a (somewhat limited) rewarding career.
Within that pursuit I have obtained Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) qualifications in both fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft capacities, as well as Instrument Ratings (IR) for both categories of aircraft. I have also flown both fixed wing and helicopters at night under Night Visual Metrological Conditions (NVMC) rules, (a capability brought about by the successful case of Denison vs CASA in the 1980’s). There has never been an adverse circumstance from this undertaking; i.e. night flying.
I also hold an Australian Airline Transport Pilot Licence Helicopter (ATPLH) which is the licence required for regular public transport but it is endorsed such that I cannot exercise the privileges of that licence. This is a strange imposition because although I am considered safe and capable of flying a helicopter by myself under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) at night I am further considered unsafe to fly at night in a multi crew environment most likely conducted under the Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), a style of flight requiring little or no visual reference to the outside world. So it seems I am safer by myself at night than with another equally competent pilot??
Recently I received what appears to be a generic letter from CASA which seems to infer that Australian operators have been advised that anybody classified as colour vision abnormal under their employ has literally overnight become clearly unsafe and their future operational capacity as a safe pilot should be reassessed. How is this suddenly possible? How can a government body spread such apparently slanderous innuendo?
In my mind this communication appears tantamount to a legally unfair and possibly slanderous besmirchment of many safe pilots and would possibly be the ruination of many successfully proven long standing careers. This is an area beyond my capacity but it does seem that legal or at least administrative or political scrutiny toward CASA is warranted on this matter.
To that end I would like to bring to your attention the activities of the Colour Vision Defective Pilots Association (CVDPA) under the determined stewardship of Doctor Arthur Pape, (although I personally detest the term ‘defective’.) Dr Pape has at his disposal a significant amount of records in respect of the issues discussed in this letter.
As CASA is about to unilaterally destroy the careers, livelihoods and lives of many people, ostensibly on an unfounded whim, and without apparent recourse on behalf of the targeted professionals; I implore you to liaise with Dr Pape and the CVDPA in pursuit of this matter. The CVDPA may be reviewed at their website www.cvdpa.com. Dr Pape may be contacted directly at [email protected]
In appreciation of your positive response,
Captain XXXX
ATPLH, CPLA, B. Aviation; Certified Aviation Safety Auditor.
Cheers,
A.P.
June 20 2014
RE: UNILATERAL DETRIMENTAL ACTION BY CASA AGAINST SELECTED PILOT GROUP
My name is XXXX. I am a professional pilot of 40 plus years standing and 17,000 accident free flying hours; bar one successfully mitigated helicopter engine failure in 1979. Flying has always been my passion and my life. I currently work in an overseas environment although I always maintain my Australian licences.
In 1970 when I took my first aviation medical it was quite a shock to be classified as colour vision abnormal as there had been no previous indication of any detrimental effect on my life thus far. However, this medical assessment had a significant impact on me in many ways for the rest of my life.
Despite a sense of discrimination and imposition thereafter on behalf of the aviation regulator, I, like many other similarly assessed pilots, persisted in the pursuit of a (somewhat limited) rewarding career.
Within that pursuit I have obtained Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) qualifications in both fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft capacities, as well as Instrument Ratings (IR) for both categories of aircraft. I have also flown both fixed wing and helicopters at night under Night Visual Metrological Conditions (NVMC) rules, (a capability brought about by the successful case of Denison vs CASA in the 1980’s). There has never been an adverse circumstance from this undertaking; i.e. night flying.
I also hold an Australian Airline Transport Pilot Licence Helicopter (ATPLH) which is the licence required for regular public transport but it is endorsed such that I cannot exercise the privileges of that licence. This is a strange imposition because although I am considered safe and capable of flying a helicopter by myself under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) at night I am further considered unsafe to fly at night in a multi crew environment most likely conducted under the Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), a style of flight requiring little or no visual reference to the outside world. So it seems I am safer by myself at night than with another equally competent pilot??
Recently I received what appears to be a generic letter from CASA which seems to infer that Australian operators have been advised that anybody classified as colour vision abnormal under their employ has literally overnight become clearly unsafe and their future operational capacity as a safe pilot should be reassessed. How is this suddenly possible? How can a government body spread such apparently slanderous innuendo?
In my mind this communication appears tantamount to a legally unfair and possibly slanderous besmirchment of many safe pilots and would possibly be the ruination of many successfully proven long standing careers. This is an area beyond my capacity but it does seem that legal or at least administrative or political scrutiny toward CASA is warranted on this matter.
To that end I would like to bring to your attention the activities of the Colour Vision Defective Pilots Association (CVDPA) under the determined stewardship of Doctor Arthur Pape, (although I personally detest the term ‘defective’.) Dr Pape has at his disposal a significant amount of records in respect of the issues discussed in this letter.
As CASA is about to unilaterally destroy the careers, livelihoods and lives of many people, ostensibly on an unfounded whim, and without apparent recourse on behalf of the targeted professionals; I implore you to liaise with Dr Pape and the CVDPA in pursuit of this matter. The CVDPA may be reviewed at their website www.cvdpa.com. Dr Pape may be contacted directly at [email protected]
In appreciation of your positive response,
Captain XXXX
ATPLH, CPLA, B. Aviation; Certified Aviation Safety Auditor.
CAsA true colours exposed
Queensland pilot challenges CASA over colour blindness restrictions
Hundreds of pilots with colour vision deficiency fear they could be grounded by CASA as a Queensland pilot mounts a legal challenge to restrictions on his licence.
Maria Hatzakis
Source: 7.30 Queensland | Duration: 7min 34sec
Topics: eyes, air-transport, brisbane-4000
Transcript
MATT WORDSWORTH: Our love of flying seems to know no bounds with passenger numbers expected to reach record levels again at Brisbane airport this year. But commercial pilots who are colour blind fear they could be grounded due to their condition. The civil aviation safety authority has written to them and their employers warning that it's considering new research into the safety of flying with a colour vision deficiency. While CASA says existing pilots have no immediate cause for concern Unions say the authority's already tightened flying restrictions for new pilots. The furore comes as a Queensland commercial pilot prepares for a legal challenge next month to have restrictions on his licence removed. Maria Hatzakis reports.
(FOOTAGE OF PILOTS GETTING READY TO TAKE OFF)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Some 36,000 pilots are licensed to fly in Australia about 400 of those are colour blind. There's been debate for decades over whether, a pilot who can't tell the difference between some colours can still fly safely.
DAVID FAWCETT, LIBERAL SENATOR: There are two schools of thought. There are some people who because of the theory that says the ability to distinguish red and green is important have always maintained that you must not allow somebody with a colour vision deficiency to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN, PILOT: Even when it comes to driving a car for example, there's colours everywhere and it's the same with aviation as well but there's not one instance in aviation where it's critical to actually be able to name colours that you see.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN PLANE ON RUNWAY)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Pilots with a colour deficiency have been able to co-pilot commercial planes and fly recreationally in Australia for the past 25 years but they're banned from captaining a multi-crew commercial plane. Queensland pilot John O'Brien believes that's unfair. He's launched a legal challenge in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal to force the Civil Aviation Safety Authority to remove restrictions on his licence.
JOHN O'BRIEN: At the moment because of my current colour vision restrictions, it prevents me from becoming a captain so, even though I've now flown as a first officer for over 2000 hours in, for the past four years and along with the advice and recommendations of all the colleagues that I fly with, my medical restrictions still prevent me from doing that.
MARIA HATZAKIS: But as next month's hearing approached CASA tightened regulations for new pilots making it harder for those with colour vision deficiency to fly.
(FOOTAGE OF LETTER FROM CASA)
MARIA HATZAKIS: It also wrote to existing colour blind pilots and their employers, warning them it's considering new research and may need to take action.
SIMON O'HARA, VIRGIN INDEPENDENT PILOTS ASSN.: We have been approached by members, who have received these letters, they're very disturbed by these developments, and this has come out of the blue for them so they've contacted this office in quite an agitated state.
JOHN O'BRIEN: People are I think certainly upset they're scared, about what their future is now in aviation. I know quite a few guys who are in exactly the same situation as myself they've been flying for many thousands of hours over many many years and now they got this prospect of having their careers ended, all on the opinions of a few individuals within CASA.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA says it will be presenting expert medical advice at the Tribunal hearing next month which supports its position and while it hasn't grounded any pilots it's trying to keep them and their employers informed. Unions are worried.
SIMON O'HARA: And they refer to medical evidence, we haven't seen that, they haven't engaged with us to talk us through or provide us with articles relating to what they rely upon in so far as that medical evidence.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN COCKPIT)
SIMON O'HARA: These pilots have to undergo rigorous check and line training, they've flown thousands of hours, there's no evidence that they are any different to any other pilot and we view this very seriously.
MARIA HATZAKIS: The Australian Federation of Air pilots believes it's unreasonable and inappropriate that CASA is asking companies to consider their pilots' fitness to fly. Qantas and Virgin are considering the letters while REX Airlines says it's very concerned.
GRAPHIC:
and is "not capable" and "in no way qualified to make any assessment" of the research.
ROB LIDDELL, FORMER CASA CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER: It's very unusual for a regulator to tell people to consider whether they themselves thought they might be unsafe or not and the regulator usually sets the standard and that's the end of it.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Rob Liddell was Director of aviation medicine at CASA or what was then known as the Civil Aviation Authority for about a decade from 1988. He can't see any reason for tougher rules.
ROB LIDDELL: In Australia where our colour vision standard has been incredibly relaxed since probably 1990s early 1990, we now have thousands of colour defective pilots who would have thousands and thousands of hours of flying and we're not actually seeing, any accidents or incidents related to that, so it's a bit surprising that CASA should suddenly take this line.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Liberal Senator David Fawcett is a former flying instructor and test pilot.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think the letters cause quite a deal of uncertainty for both the pilots and for their employers. They raise a doubt in people's minds about the safety of these pilots and yet the last 25 years has shown that these pilots have operated, single pilot, as part of a crew quite safely with no incidents.
MARIA HATZAKIS: He's written to Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss who's responsible for CASA urging him to conduct a study based on 25 years of accident free flying. He also believes the Commonwealth should help John O'Brien.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think it would be appropriate for the Commonwealth to fund the O'Brien case before the AAT so that both sides of the argument can bring forth their experts, the evidence can be laid out in an unbiased and complete manner before the AAT and they can then make a decision.
ROB LIDDELL: I would have thought it's a beautiful opportunity to conduct research. Keep these people employed follow them through very closely so we might be able to tell the rest of the world ultimately that there appears to be no reason why a colour defective pilot can't fly safely.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA maintains any further changes would be a long way off. But that hasn't settled the nerves of those who've been seeking even more freedom to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN: When I first applied at the AAT it was really an attempt to be able to progress my career. So they're actually turning it into a fight of not just the ability to progress my career but now just the ability to even maintain my career as it stands.
MATT WORDSWORTH: And no-one from CASA was available to comment on camera.
Not like Peter to be lost for words??
Hundreds of pilots with colour vision deficiency fear they could be grounded by CASA as a Queensland pilot mounts a legal challenge to restrictions on his licence.
Maria Hatzakis
Source: 7.30 Queensland | Duration: 7min 34sec
Topics: eyes, air-transport, brisbane-4000
Transcript
MATT WORDSWORTH: Our love of flying seems to know no bounds with passenger numbers expected to reach record levels again at Brisbane airport this year. But commercial pilots who are colour blind fear they could be grounded due to their condition. The civil aviation safety authority has written to them and their employers warning that it's considering new research into the safety of flying with a colour vision deficiency. While CASA says existing pilots have no immediate cause for concern Unions say the authority's already tightened flying restrictions for new pilots. The furore comes as a Queensland commercial pilot prepares for a legal challenge next month to have restrictions on his licence removed. Maria Hatzakis reports.
(FOOTAGE OF PILOTS GETTING READY TO TAKE OFF)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Some 36,000 pilots are licensed to fly in Australia about 400 of those are colour blind. There's been debate for decades over whether, a pilot who can't tell the difference between some colours can still fly safely.
DAVID FAWCETT, LIBERAL SENATOR: There are two schools of thought. There are some people who because of the theory that says the ability to distinguish red and green is important have always maintained that you must not allow somebody with a colour vision deficiency to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN, PILOT: Even when it comes to driving a car for example, there's colours everywhere and it's the same with aviation as well but there's not one instance in aviation where it's critical to actually be able to name colours that you see.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN PLANE ON RUNWAY)
MARIA HATZAKIS: Pilots with a colour deficiency have been able to co-pilot commercial planes and fly recreationally in Australia for the past 25 years but they're banned from captaining a multi-crew commercial plane. Queensland pilot John O'Brien believes that's unfair. He's launched a legal challenge in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal to force the Civil Aviation Safety Authority to remove restrictions on his licence.
JOHN O'BRIEN: At the moment because of my current colour vision restrictions, it prevents me from becoming a captain so, even though I've now flown as a first officer for over 2000 hours in, for the past four years and along with the advice and recommendations of all the colleagues that I fly with, my medical restrictions still prevent me from doing that.
MARIA HATZAKIS: But as next month's hearing approached CASA tightened regulations for new pilots making it harder for those with colour vision deficiency to fly.
(FOOTAGE OF LETTER FROM CASA)
MARIA HATZAKIS: It also wrote to existing colour blind pilots and their employers, warning them it's considering new research and may need to take action.
SIMON O'HARA, VIRGIN INDEPENDENT PILOTS ASSN.: We have been approached by members, who have received these letters, they're very disturbed by these developments, and this has come out of the blue for them so they've contacted this office in quite an agitated state.
JOHN O'BRIEN: People are I think certainly upset they're scared, about what their future is now in aviation. I know quite a few guys who are in exactly the same situation as myself they've been flying for many thousands of hours over many many years and now they got this prospect of having their careers ended, all on the opinions of a few individuals within CASA.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA says it will be presenting expert medical advice at the Tribunal hearing next month which supports its position and while it hasn't grounded any pilots it's trying to keep them and their employers informed. Unions are worried.
SIMON O'HARA: And they refer to medical evidence, we haven't seen that, they haven't engaged with us to talk us through or provide us with articles relating to what they rely upon in so far as that medical evidence.
(MORE FOOTAGE OF PILOTS IN COCKPIT)
SIMON O'HARA: These pilots have to undergo rigorous check and line training, they've flown thousands of hours, there's no evidence that they are any different to any other pilot and we view this very seriously.
MARIA HATZAKIS: The Australian Federation of Air pilots believes it's unreasonable and inappropriate that CASA is asking companies to consider their pilots' fitness to fly. Qantas and Virgin are considering the letters while REX Airlines says it's very concerned.
GRAPHIC:
and is "not capable" and "in no way qualified to make any assessment" of the research.
ROB LIDDELL, FORMER CASA CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER: It's very unusual for a regulator to tell people to consider whether they themselves thought they might be unsafe or not and the regulator usually sets the standard and that's the end of it.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Rob Liddell was Director of aviation medicine at CASA or what was then known as the Civil Aviation Authority for about a decade from 1988. He can't see any reason for tougher rules.
ROB LIDDELL: In Australia where our colour vision standard has been incredibly relaxed since probably 1990s early 1990, we now have thousands of colour defective pilots who would have thousands and thousands of hours of flying and we're not actually seeing, any accidents or incidents related to that, so it's a bit surprising that CASA should suddenly take this line.
MARIA HATZAKIS: Liberal Senator David Fawcett is a former flying instructor and test pilot.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think the letters cause quite a deal of uncertainty for both the pilots and for their employers. They raise a doubt in people's minds about the safety of these pilots and yet the last 25 years has shown that these pilots have operated, single pilot, as part of a crew quite safely with no incidents.
MARIA HATZAKIS: He's written to Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss who's responsible for CASA urging him to conduct a study based on 25 years of accident free flying. He also believes the Commonwealth should help John O'Brien.
DAVID FAWCETT: I think it would be appropriate for the Commonwealth to fund the O'Brien case before the AAT so that both sides of the argument can bring forth their experts, the evidence can be laid out in an unbiased and complete manner before the AAT and they can then make a decision.
ROB LIDDELL: I would have thought it's a beautiful opportunity to conduct research. Keep these people employed follow them through very closely so we might be able to tell the rest of the world ultimately that there appears to be no reason why a colour defective pilot can't fly safely.
MARIA HATZAKIS: CASA maintains any further changes would be a long way off. But that hasn't settled the nerves of those who've been seeking even more freedom to fly.
JOHN O'BRIEN: When I first applied at the AAT it was really an attempt to be able to progress my career. So they're actually turning it into a fight of not just the ability to progress my career but now just the ability to even maintain my career as it stands.
MATT WORDSWORTH: And no-one from CASA was available to comment on camera.
Not like Peter to be lost for words??