FSS medical question

[grimey]

I know the FSS medical is far more lenient than those that controllers and pilots have to get, but how lenient is it? I had a pacemaker/defibrillator implanted 4 years ago, and my heart trouble in now reasonably controlled with medication. Does anyone know if a pacemaker would automatically disqualify me?

[Lotro]

My guess is that an FSS needs a category 2 or category 1 medical which is the same as an Air Traffic Controller.

The requirements for this can be seen here:

http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/civilaviation/r ... 2-1412.htm

Ultimately though, I think it's up to the certified aviation medical examiner to decide. Your best bet would be to find one and get a checkup/ask the question.

Good luck!

[grimey]

No, I never needed a cat 1 or 2 when I used to be an FSS, but I also didn't have the pacemaker at that time. Unfortunately the medical requirements don't seem to be published anywhere, which is the reason I'm asking.

[thatdaveguy]

The medical requirements for FSS are entirely within Nav Canada--ie Transport Canada is not involved.

You would have to contact somebody at Nav to track down some documents for you--but even then, it's probably up to the CAME to decide in the end.

[W0XOF]

I do know of one specialist who currently has a pacemaker. The pacemaker also didn't hinder them from being accepted for IFR cross training.

[StratusSmoke]

FSS is so short staffed it seems as long as you have a pulse and don't drool too much they will put you in a chair, slap a headset on and let you have at 'er.

[grimey]

Thanks for the feedback guys, time to see if I can get my old job back. Well, an equivalent one, anyway, I'd rather stay in Ontario.

[thatdaveguy]

Thanks for the feedback guys, time to see if I can get my old job back. Well, an equivalent one, anyway, I'd rather stay in Ontario.

Apply in Toronto FIR and you'd only be posted in Toronto FIR.