Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-000259/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Peter Agius (PPE)
For many commercial pilots in the EU, a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes leads to the loss of their pilot licence, and hence their flying careers. This is not the case in the United States, Canada and Australia. It should not be in the EU, either!
The medical assessment protocol of the EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for pilots with diabetes, ARA.MED.330, provides for well-controlled diabetics to obtain aero-medical certification. This has, however, been adopted by only a few of the Member States and relies on outdated technology like finger-prick glucose monitoring.
Beyond the EU, several countries have adopted updated protocols enabling diabetic pilots to fly safely. Advances in diabetes management, such as continuous glucose monitoring and insulin-delivering technology have transformed the lives of diabetics globally. Yet EU pilots remain unfairly grounded, facing barriers and discrimination.
With the EASA’s research due in October 2025, action is urgently needed to update the protocol, integrate modern tools and ensure equal opportunities for diabetic pilots across the EU.
Could the Commission:
- 1.Provide an update on the EASA’s research and how it plans to incorporate technological advancements on diabetes into the protocol?
- 2.Explain the steps taken to ensure all of the Member States adopt a standardised approach?
- 3.Address how it will tackle the professional and emotional toll on diabetic pilots and ensure fair treatment across the EU?
Submitted: 22.1.2025