AESA Recommendations for AMEs on Operational Testing in Aeronautical Medical Assessments

Madrid, 18 September 2025 (AESA)

The State Aviation Safety Agency (AESA) has published new support material for Aeronautical Medical Examiners (AMEs), with detailed recommendations on the conduct of operational tests in the context of the medical evaluation of aeronautical personnel.

These operational tests aim to assess the functional capacity of applicants in relation to the licence applied for, within specific aeronautical environments such as flight simulators, real aircraft or spaces associated with navigation and air control.

These tests constitute the final stage of the medical evaluation process and can lead to the issuance of medical certificates with operational limitations. The most common reasons for requiring an operational test include evaluation of musculoskeletal, hearing, or visual impairment abilities, among others.

In the event that special conditions are detected during the EASA medical examination, in accordance with Regulations 1178/2011 and 2015/340, the AME may propose to AESA, subject to justification, that an operational test be carried out to decide on the suitability of the candidate.

Once the operational test has been carried out, AESA shall communicate the results and subsequent actions to the EMA.

This resource seeks to facilitate the work of medical examiners and ensure that medical evaluations are carried out with the utmost rigor and in conditions that faithfully reflect the operating environment of aeronautical personnel.

You can consult this guide material here.