Incapacitation of pilot — Pilatus PC-12, medical flight

Summary

The pilot of an RFDS Pilatus PC-12 conducting a patient retrieval from Charleville became incapacitated during cruise due to a hypoglycaemic episode. The RFDS doctor on board, who held a Private Pilot Licence, assumed control of the aircraft, contacted Brisbane Centre, and with ATC assistance, landed the aircraft safely at Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport.

Investigation Findings (4)

1. 01The pilot's declared medical certificate was valid; however, the pilot had not disclosed a prior episode of hypoglycaemia to CASA's aviation medical assessor.
2. 02The doctor's assistance and quick decision-making were credited with preventing a serious accident.
3. 03RFDS Queensland Section updated its operational policy to require pilots operating single-crew missions to consume a meal within 3 hours of flight commencement.
4. 04CASA reviewed disclosure requirements for metabolic conditions in Class 1 aviation medicals.