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The Icelandic Transport Authority Frontpage
The Icelandic Transport Authority Frontpage

Icelandic Transport Authority

Regarding discussion on medical records

27th February 2025

Those issued a commercial pilot’s license are subject to strict health requirements. Decisions regarding the revocation of a medical certificate, and consequently the loss of rights, are taken seriously and made with aviation safety as the primary consideration.

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Due to media coverage concerning medical records and the loss of a commercial pilot's license, the following clarification is necessary:

According to an agreement with the Primary Health Care of the Capital Area, the appointed medical examiner of the Icelandic Transport Authority had access to medical records for years. This access was utilized when a special assessment of an applicant’s health for aviation licensing was required. However, the Primary Health Care failed to obtain the legally mandated approval of the minister for the agreement. Following a ruling by the Data Protection Authority on September 23, 2024, the contract was terminated.

According to the Data Protection Authority's conclusion, the Transport Authority’s medical examiner acted within the scope of their authorized access under the institution’s general procedures. The data was collected following the agreement, and its security was ensured throughout its handling.

The Icelandic Transport Authority has significant responsibilities concerning the supervision of aviation and individuals holding licenses. Those issued a commercial pilot’s license are subject to strict health requirements. Decisions regarding the revocation of a medical certificate, and consequently the loss of rights, are taken seriously and made with aviation safety as the primary consideration.