Flight Surgeon

Flight Surgeons are medical doctors who are also trained in aviation and aerospace medicine. Some Flight Surgeons carry out their duties in the military while others work for commercial airlines, space agencies, and private companies. Some Flight Surgeons even carry out their duties as private consultants.

Roles and Responsibilities

Flight Surgeons carry out a wide range of duties, such as:

• Performing physical exams and medical evaluations to ensure that pilots, astronauts, and other aviation personnel are fit to fly
• Providing medical care to aviation personnel and attending to their medical conditions
• Conducting research on aerospace medicine and collaborating on the development of new medical technology
• Training aviation personnel on health and safety topics
• Developing and implementing safety protocols for aviation and space travel

Education and Training

Flight Surgeons must have a medical degree and complete residency training in aerospace medicine. They must also have a valid pilot's license and be certified in aviation medicine by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Flight Surgeons who work for the military must also complete military training and meet the physical and mental requirements for military service.

Skills and Knowledge