// Aviation Medicine Unit

Under the command of RNZAF Base Auckland, the RNZAF's Aviation Medicine Unit (AMU) is located in historic Clark House near the Hobsonville airfield. AMU is responsible for aviation medicine as it affects the Air Force.

The focus of AMU activities is:

• Educating flying personnel in aspects of aviation medicine and human factors.
• Selecting flying personnel with appropriate medical fitness, and ensuring continued medical fitness of existing aircrews.
• Providing Aviation Medicine input into aircrew clothing and safety equipment to optimise flight safety, and participating in projects to evaluate such equipment.
• Conducting research into aviation medical matters of operational significance to the NZDF.
• Providing Aviation Medicine input into the investigation of aircraft accidents and mishaps.
• Maintaining contact with the Air & Space Interoperability Council (ASIC), to maximise the potential for interoperability between the RNZAF and others, and to keep abreast of international developments in aviation medicine and human factors.
• Advising NZDF commanders on any aspects of aviation medicine which may impact on operations of the Air Force.

Medical Assessments

AMU undertakes the assessment of all medicals for those entering the RNZAF as ground or aircrew. About 1200 medical assessments are carried out each year, including annual reviews of individual aircrew.

The unit has a hypobaric chamber used to assess the effects of high-altitude operations on individuals. The chamber is used for about 60 hours per year.

Research Projects

In addition to the routine medical assessments and advice on operational health, AMU undertakes specific research projects.