In April 2008 the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), an executive agency of the European Commission, became responsible for the Licensing and Medical Standards of pilots in Europe.

The advent of a pan-European legislative structure for the regulation of aviation medical assessments in Europe is an exciting and challenging prospect. The objective of improving flight safety for the citizens of Europe by the harmonisation of medical standards is laudable and well supported.

Dr Billings will discuss his 60 years as a physician, flight surgeon and teacher, using as examples some research studies in which he has been involved to illustrate the breadth of research needs of the civil aviation community that have motivated his work.

A continuing aim from the beginning of manned flight has been to protect occupants in aircraft crashes from the effects of impact. Although aircraft crashes are uncommon they have serious consequences and, in particular, survivability and injury causation are major concerns in both military and civil aviation.