Rule change bid to let HIV man become a pilot

NICOLA STURGEON has backed a rule change that would allow an HIV positive man from Glasgow to become a commercial airline pilot.

The First Minister said she would write to the Civil Aviation Authority expressing her support for a change in the regulations.

Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn, raised the case of his constituent, who wants to remain anonymous, during First Minis- ter’s Questions at Holyrood.

He said: “A constituent of mine is close to securing a training placement with a commercial airline.

“However due to being HIV positive the Civil Aviation Authority will not issue the required medical certification, citing European Aviation Safety Agency rules. I understand that deviation from these rules can be permitted.

“If my constituent was to stay in the USA, Canada, New Zealand or Australia, or indeed have contracted HIV as an existing commercial pilot, there would be no issues.

“Can I ask whether the First Minister agrees with me this situation amounts to discrimination and can the Scottish Government make representations to the Civil Aviation Authority to seek to end this injustice and therefore allow my constituent to pursue their dreams?”

Ms Sturgeon said she was not aware of the full details of the case, but added: “I will write to the CAA to make clear my support for this rule change. We can all play our part in making life better for those living with HIV and we should all continue to work to eradicate the stigma around the virus.”

The CAA has said it supports a rule change “where it is safe to do so” and is working with EASA to reassess the regulation.