Joint Committee on Aviation Pathology: XI. Evaluation and disposition of Army helicopter aviators with finger...

During the period 1969-1975, 12 disqualified U.S. Army helicopter aviators with various finger amputations were evaluated by the U.S. Army Aeromedical Consultation Service for return to flying duties. The evaluations included both medical examinations and in-flight performance observed by aviation medicine specialists and standardization instructor pilots. The criteria for aeromedical disposition are presented with a discussion of the hand and finger requirements to fly U.S. Army UH-1 rotary wing aircraft. All evaluated aviators were presented to a board of senior U.S. Army flight surgeons, who recommended return to flying. Ten of the disqualified aviators were returned to unrestricted flying. Two required limitations to fly with another qualified aviator. At this time, 1 to 7 years after evaluation, 11 are current Army aviators. None have had to be reevaluated or suspended as a result of problems with their amputations. Not one of these aviators has had a fatal accident. The comprehensive medical and in-flight evaluations of well-motivated, disqualified aviator finger amputees has proven to be of benefit in retaining valued assets for U.S. Army aviation.