mattp | Dec. 2nd, 2009

It is with much sadness that I must announce Project Flying is temporarily on hold. As some of you know, I have a non-trivial medical history.

A few weeks back, I had the medical examination with the Aviation Medical Examiner. He said that though I passed each of the basic criteria, he didn't know enough about NF to sign off a pass and so issued a deferment, pending more information. Frustrating, but understandable.

A couple of weeks later, I receive the letter from the CAA detailing the extra information needed. (He'd told me himself what was needed but I chose to wait so that I had it in their own words). I was then able to book an appointment with my GP (which I've since had), and she was then be able to arrange for a referral. The problem with that is the nearest specialist place is in a different PCT to my own so my PCT is likely to be unwilling to release the money.

So in summary, it is going ahead - it is not cancelled (and likely won't be unless the CAA are excessive twunts) - but no progress will be made whilst I endure PCT politics.

Writing this has given me an idea, but it does go against my principles somewhat. I am a big fan of the NHS, even with their failings. I am considering arranging a private consultation so that I am not at the mercy of waiting lists and PCT wrangling.