As the FAI Medico-Physiological Commission (CIMP) celebrates 100 years at the service of aviation medicine, its President Marja Osinga-Meek shares the latest news from the Bureau. A key topic is the recruitment of new members, whether they are specialists in physiological or psychological medicine.

Why is it important to make CIMP better known to the Aviation Medicine community?

Marja Osinga-Meek: CIMP is a Technical Commission of the FAI. It consists of members that evaluate, and advise on, rules in aeromedical standards, doping issues and flight safety topics that affect air sport pilots. CIMP members advise the FAI and their members - National Aeroclubs (NACs).

This knowledge is essential for all aviation medical specialists, just because of the number of air sport pilots far transcends the number of commercial pilots worldwide.

Flight safety is the key word in sport aviation. For CIMP, this is an essential subject of discussion, and topics we discuss regularly include safety procedures related to human factors, medical conditions, technical safety solutions and behavioural topics. Granting Therapeutic Use Exemptions according to the rules of WADA, the World Anti Doping Agency, is also a task of the TUE-panel of CIMP.

You are looking for more CIMP Delegates - what type of people might find it interesting to participate?

Medical specialists and psychologists, with a special affinity for air sport medical issues, or experience in the field of aviation medicine. Ideally those being an active air sport pilot, representing their National Aeroclub. Each FAI member country can appoint a delegate and an alternate delegate.

In what way Delegates can contribute to the Aviation Medicine community?

By presenting papers at International aeromedical conferences, by publishing proposals for appropriate medical rulemaking tailored for air sport pilots, by representing FAI in aviation rulemaking bodies, by research activities in air sports, by reviewing and analysing accidents in air sports.

What are the advantages of becoming a CIMP Delegate?

Being part of a dedicated, active group of aeromedical specialists, sharing knowledge and experiences, discussing aeromedical issues. CIMP organises an annual Plenary Meeting, in Lausanne or at the European venue of the conference of the International Academy of Aviation and Space Medicine (IAASM). In 2022, CIMP will have the meeting in Paris, prior to the International Conference of Aerospace Medicine (ICAM).

Is there a specific project for which you need more participation?

All kinds of aeromedical issues are subject of discussion within the CIMP. Mental Health is an important topic, so psychologists and psychiatrists are very welcome to participate.

How to become a CIMP Delegate

You can find a list of current delegates on the website. If you would like to add your name to this list, the first step is to contact the FAI Member in your country.

If you'd like to contribute to aviation medicine within FAI, whether as a Delegate or not, or if you have any questions, please contact CIMP President Marja Osinga-Meek.