Foreword

To become a safe pilot, it is not enough that you want to fly. You must also be physically fit, psychologically sound, and well trained. Most aircraft accidents are caused by pilot deficiencies in one of these areas.

Training procedures have been adequately covered in other publications, and must be learned from a certificated instructor before a pilot is licensed. But information on the pilot's physical and mental status has been left largely in limbo until now. Yet you, as a pilot, are only partly prepared for safe flight if you are unfamiliar with the medical factors which affect your performance. No matter how skillfully you have mastered the techniques of flying, if you suffer from blunted judgment, slowed responses, or inattention, you may fly your aircraft and its passengers to disaster.

This handbook is dedicated to the prevention of the tragic air accidents caused by human factors.