Spirometric Assessment of Potential Respiratory Impairment in General Aviation Airmen
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease continues to manifest an increasing prevalence in male Americans. A recent study of commercial airpline pilots revealed a 12-percent prevalence of minor-to-moderate spirometric impairment. Because commensurate data were not available for general aviation pilots, in whom such impairment could also compromise flight safety, a parallel study was made. The British Medical Research Council and smoking questionnaires, chest expansion, and spirometric measurements of FEV(1), FVC, FEV(1%), MVV, and FEF(25-75%) were assessed in 181 male general aviation pilots. All data showed a general relationship to increasing age and amount of smoking. Based on FEV(1%) and FEF(25-75%) combined, minor degrees of spirometric impairment were exceeded by 25.4 percent of the pilots and moderate degrees, by 12.7 percent. Negligible impairment was reflected in the remaining spirometric parameters. Subsequent testing of such spirometrically impaired pilots for altitude, fatigue, and orthostatic tolerances related to general aviation is planned. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA038296
Entities
People
- Marinus Flux
- Michael T. Lategola
- Peggy J. Lyne
Organizations
- Federal Aviation Administration