The leisure pilot license in Europe: need for evidence-based requirements

The proposed introduction of a leisure pilot license in Europe has resulted in controversy. The arguments against are based on opinion and past practice with appeals to emotion. In this commentary, which was invited in response to the commentary by Simons et al. (Aviat Space Environ Med 2009; 80:663-4), it is suggested that the proposals need to be judged objectively on evidence from European nations and elsewhere, and that policies be consistent between different fields of recreational aviation. Where evidence does not exist, a scientific investigation of flight safety outcomes is warranted, if only because of the large collective expenditure on medically examining pilots.