The Israeli Air Force has decided to let pregnant pilots
keep flying.
It was 15 years ago that the first woman graduated from the
Air Force Flight Academy, and since then, many other high-quality women have
reached the same prestigious stage. Now these pilots will only have to take a
minor pregnancy recess to keep up with their male counterparts.
According to the recent change in policy, women will no
longer be grounded if they're pregnant. Despite the potential threat of flying
while pregnant, the IAF's medical unit has decided that women can be part of
the aircrew under conditions and regulations that will minimize their risk and
guarantee a safe flight.
Flying during the 15th to 25th week of the pregnancy will be
allowed for transport flights that are up to four hours long, under 8,000 feet,
and accompanied by another pilot.
Before boarding the plane, the pregnant pilot will undergo a
full check-up, and once a month she will visit an aviation medical examiner.
"In 1995, the first women cadets flew in their
inaugural flights, and ever since the Air Force has gone a long way to
integrate women," Dr. Lieut. Col. Yifat Erlich, the commanding officer of
the IAF's medical unit, said.
"There are women fighter pilots, and their
needs have to be addressed." It is noted that foreign Air Forces also
include pregnant pilots within their operation teams.
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