Background: A petition as a trigger
The discussion took place in the context of an online petition launched at the end of last year, which was signed by almost 20,000 people. The petition, which was largely initiated by Professor Giemulla, Claus Cordes and the recently deceased Jo Konrad from the German Ultralight Flying Association (DULV), was addressed to the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport Affairs (BMDV). The signatories called for a solution to the difficulties that had arisen in the aeromedical administration of the LBA, particularly with regard to medical fitness decisions for pilots. This petition ultimately led to the signatures being handed over to the Federal Ministry and set the political pressure in motion that led to the measures that have now been initiated.
Catalogue of measures to improve the situation
During the meeting, the LBA representatives explained the elements of a catalogue of measures developed in collaboration with the BMDV to alleviate the situation. According to the LBA, one of the main causes of the delays in fitness decisions is the lack of personnel. To counter this problem, staff have already been reallocated within the LBA. These positions are now to be filled quickly, provided suitable personnel can be found. In addition, in consultation with the Ministry of Transport, a budget has been made available for the hiring of freelance staff, which should also help to shorten processing times.
Professor Elmar Giemulla commented: "Implementation of the measures has already begun. However, we expect that the effects in the form of shorter processing times will only be noticeable after a certain delay. From August, however, at least the telephone availability of the clerks in the responsible department L6 should be guaranteed again."
Optimisation of cooperation with aviation physicians
Another key aspect of the catalogue of measures concerns cooperation with aviation physicians. The LBA has announced that it will intensify communication with aviation physicians to ensure that all necessary documents are submitted completely and correctly. This should reduce time-consuming enquiries and speed up the process overall. Claus Cordes emphasised that air sports enthusiasts themselves could also help to improve the situation: "Pilots should submit particularly complex requests towards the end of the flying season if possible, so that they can be processed by the start of the next season. This would help to reduce peak workloads at the LBA."
Positive response to the dialogue
The discussion partners expressed their satisfaction with the progress achieved through the dialogue with the LBA. Professor Giemulla and Claus Cordes emphasised that the constructive exchange between the LBA and the interest groups of the pilots affected was already an important success. "Our aim was never to publicly criticise anyone, but rather to bring about an urgently needed change. Thanks to these talks, we are now a big step closer to this goal," said Professor Giemulla.
Claus Cordes agreed with this assessment and emphasised that the cooperation with the LBA would continue in order to drive forward the initiated improvements and develop long-term solutions for aeromedical administration.
Outlook: Further steps to improve administration
The measures now introduced by the LBA and the positive reactions from interest groups give us hope that the aeromedical administration in Germany will soon be more efficient and user-friendly again. While the first measures are already being implemented, it remains to be seen how quickly the announced improvements will be felt in practice. Ongoing cooperation between the LBA and the air sports associations will play a key role in this.
Overall, it is clear that even complex administrative problems can be successfully tackled through constructive dialogue and targeted measures - to the benefit of all those involved in general aviation.
Source references:
DAEC
