ABSTRACT
The functional integrity of the nervous system of aircrew may be compromised by the demands and physical nature of the working environment and by clinical disorders of the nervous system. From the clinical perspective, the sleep–wakefulness continuum is subject to many neurological disorders, orientation and awareness are dependent on the integrity of the vestibular and visual systems, and there is always the possibility of a developing neurodegenerative condition with the subtleties of impaired cognition. In aircrew with complaints referred to the nervous system, the working environment and the clinical picture have to be considered together. Assessments may involve potential aircrew with a history of a neurological problem and aircrew who develop a neurological problem, as well as potential aircrew without any history of a neurological condition or of neurological symptoms and established aircrew attending for renewal of their medical certificate. In aeromedical practice the vast majority of individuals have neither a history nor symptoms of a neurological condition.
