ABSTRACT
Diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are common in the wider population and are, therefore, encountered by aviators relatively frequently. These diseases do not cause the extremes of incapacitation related to acute cardiac or neurological events, however, acute GI illnesses can prevent aircrew from performing their duties. Most acute GI illnesses will develop over a period of hours and, therefore, before flight. They are self-limiting and usually resolve spontaneously; therefore, a short term restriction from flying until the symptoms have passed is sufficient. Chronic GI diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease often have a relapsing/ remitting course and long term medical intervention is required to alter the natural history of the disease. These diseases have significant implications for those pursuing a career in aviation due to the relapsing nature leading to unpredictable absences from flying, which can be unacceptable to an employer. However, with treatment advances, many GI conditions can now be managed and allow aircrew to maintain their fitness to fly.
