Cockpit crew representatives are expressing scepticism over the effectiveness of psychological testing of pilots early in their employment at a carrier.
Such testing features among recommendations put forward last year by the European Aviation Safety Agency in response to the fatal Germanwings Airbus A320 crash in the French Alps in 2015. Investigators attributed the crash to deliberate action by the first officer, after he was left in the cockpit alone.
UK pilots union BALPA says, however, that there are "no tests proven to be reliable" for accurately assessing a crew member's mental state.
While EASA's proposal contains a recommendation for psychological testing before a commitment to line flying, the union has expressed concern that the regulations could be "counter-productive".
"If pilots feel they can’t be open with their mental health, through fear of losing their job, it will only serve to push the problem underground," claims BALPA flight safety head Rob Hunter.
"We need to ensure these new rules support pilots and don’t demonise them, and offer the appropriate support where needed."
The union also claims that the psychological testing proposed would not have prevented the Germanwings event.
It has underlined its views just days after German operators challenged another recommendation drawn up after the crash, which centred on ensuring that two people, at least, were present in the cockpit at all times.
EASA's proposal acknowledges the opinion of a number of commenters to its proposal who state that the value of such assessments is "likely to be limited" regarding sensitivity to detecting relevant psychiatric conditions.
"No convincing data exists to support that adding psychological testing to the hiring process or to the routine medical examinations enhance the ability to assess the mental fitness of the pilot workforce," it cites these opinions as stating.
But it also highlights comments from other stakeholders who view favourably the introduction of psychological testing to the pre-employment and selection process.
EASA's proposals are due to be presented for consideration in June, with a decision on implementation later this year.
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Source: Cirium Dashboard
