IMHO, there is an ethical distinction that needs to be made here. Pilot
incapacitation in a single seat glider is indeed not likely to hurt anyone
but the pilot. Except, in Frank's case, where it may lead to additional
regulatory burden on others. (Though one might imagine additional
scenarios.)

Where it REALLY crosses the line is when a medically unfit pilot assumes PIC
responsibilities in a two-seater with a non-pilot on board. This would
include an instructor who flies with a pre-solo student. The passenger and
student are totally reliant on the rated pilot for their safety and have
every reason to expect that their pilot meets high medical standards.

Unfortunately, I know of several instructors who have lost their medicals
for very serious conditions yet continue to fly (Legally in the US) with
pre-solo students. It would seem to me that clubs who have authorized these
instructors to instruct in club aircraft incur some liability here.

Bill Daniels


"Mike the Strike" wrote in message
oups.com...
On May 3, 5:21 pm, Frank Whiteley wrote:
http://www.kilkennyadvertiser.ie/index.php?aid=5621


To the best of my knowledge, pilot incapacitation through ill health
has not resulted in any serious injuries to anyone other than the
pilot of a single-seat glider.

Certainly it's against the regulations in most countries to fly when
your health is in question, but I doubt there are few who would
censure a solo glider pilot for ignoring this regulation.

I, like most pilots, break a few regs from time to time.

Mike