Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, with reference to the Answer of 13 July 2023 to Question HL8900 on Armed Forces: HIV Infection, what the medical assessment process is for serving (a) aircrew and (b) controllers who are (i) living with HIV and (ii) taking HIV PrEP.

In line with other medical conditions, and in accordance with the policy, serving aircrew and controllers who are diagnosed as HIV positive while in service are temporarily withdrawn from flying or controlling duties for initial medical assessment and treatment options. Following this, a formal medical board undertakes a case-by-case basis assessment to determine a permanent medical employment standard in line with the condition, prognosis, function, and associated risk.

For aircrew and controllers taking HIV PrEP, a minimum period of medical downgrading is required to assess any potential aviation safety impacting side effects of medication before individuals can be considered fit to return to full flying duties by a Military Aviation Medical Examiner.