Migraine and Flying

Abstract

Pilots are used to control aircraft because the human brain can interpret and respond appropriately to a wider range of signals than a computer of comparable size and availability. Fitness for aircrew duties equates to being able to interpret signals and respond appropriately and for this the pilot needs three things:

• 1. He must know his position in space; for this he requires an adequate sensory input—good sight, hearing, balance, muscle sense, etc.

• 2. He must be able to decide the safest course to bring his aircraft to its goal; for this he needs the mental capacity to make decisions, and the will to carry them out.

• 3. He must have the physical capacity to carry out the course of action decided upon to bring his aircraft safely to its goal.