What does EASA CAT.GEN.MPA.215, CAT.GEN.MPA.175, CAT.GEN.MPA.170 mean to aircraft operators?
By the 14th February 2021, every AOC holder must comply with the regulations from EASA outlined in these documents.
The psychological wellbeing and positive mental health of commercial pilots is of fundamental importance to safe Commercial Air Transport (CAT) operations. Early recognition and reporting of issues is essential to enable quick resolution. CAT operators should facilitate access to support from a peer support volunteer for their pilots in a just culture environment and to other forms of support, including health care professionals, if expert help is needed.
Life events and psychological stressors can affect anyone. Pilots are not immune to mental ill-health that affects the general population. It is essential that pilots have an easily accessible route for seeking assistance when under pressure or when symptoms of ill-health first present, so that they can be supported or referred for treatment without fear of reprisal. A known and trusted pilot peer support system will benefit both the individual by maintaining a fulfilling career and the organisation by supporting a safe operation.
This guidance outlines a framework for a CAT operator’s Pilot Support Programme (PSP), which should form part of their Safety Management System.