A new specialist unit of the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which will become a focal point for…
A new specialist unit of the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), which will become a focal point for expertise on aviation health issues, started its work today under the leadership of Dr Annette Ruge.
The decision to set up the unit followed an extensive consultation exercise after a recommendation from the House of Lords Select Committee that the Government prioritise passenger and crew health issues. The new unit will initially be funded by the DfT and will be based at the CAA`s Gatwick offices. It will:
- Provide advice to the UK Government and others on aviation health issues;
- Investigate potential new aviation health concerns;
- Review research and other information on aviation health; and
- Liaise with the aviation industry and relevant organisations throughout the world.
The unit will be the main source of advice on aviation health to the DfT and the Department of Health (DoH), with Ministers retaining the responsibility for policy decisions. It will also offer guidance to passengers primarily through a web-based information site. However, individuals seeking advice on whether a personal medical condition is acceptable for a particular flight should contact their GP or a local hospital doctor for information.
Dr Annette Ruge joins the CAA from the European Joint Aviation Authorities, based at Hoofddorp in the Netherlands, where she advised on aviation medical issues. She has a comprehensive background in medical and aviation practice and research which includes working as a flight attendant for a German airline, five years as a doctor in a hospital intensive care unit, and Vice Chairperson of the German aviation National Medical Review Board. She has also studied cabin air issues and the effects of cosmic radiation and has a PhD based on research in the subject of deep vein thrombosis.
Dr Ruge said: I`m looking forward to the opportunity to work in the UK to assist in furthering the understanding of aviation health issues. Part of my work will be to investigate aviation health topics and provide Government with advice on exactly what is and what isn`t a medical risk.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
