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Etihad gets nod to run aeromedical centre

This grants extended privileges to the clinic to allow additional functions to be performed on behalf of the regulator.

Abu Dhabi — Etihad Airways has received accreditation from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to operate the country’s first aeromedical centre (AeMC).

The GCAA is the government regulatory body responsible for civil aviation in the UAE. They are bringing rules and regulations in line with those of the European aviation regulator, EASA.

As part of this alignment, medical clinics may apply to the Authority for special approval as an aeromedical centre. This grants extended privileges to the clinic to allow additional functions to be performed on behalf of the regulator.

The authorisation was received following a detailed review of Etihad Airways Medical Centre (EAMC), including its policy and procedure framework and its qualified medical professionals.

As a result, EAMC will now have the authority to issue initial medical certificates to pilots, air traffic controllers and other professional aviation licence holders. Reissuance of certificates will also be delegated to EAMC.

With over 2,000 pilots and 5,000 cabin crew currently employed at Etihad Airways, the accreditation will significantly impact efficiency of the medical experience for employees.

The AeMC accreditation is the latest in a number of recent achievements by the Etihad Airways Medical Services team. Earlier this year, Etihad Airways was selected to become the first company in Abu Dhabi with an onsite medical facility to support the visa application process for thousands of employees and their dependents in the UAE. The facility will open later this year following an agreement with Ambulatory Healthcare Services — Seha.

— haseeb@khaleejtimes.com