Prominent legal expert Gerard Forlin KC champions mental health reforms in aviation
Gerard Forlin KC, a distinguished barrister and a key global figure in health and safety, regulatory and aviation law, has taken a pivotal role in advocating for transformative changes in mental health policies within the global aviation sector. Gerard, alongside a cohort of esteemed professionals, has co-authored a significant policy statement that underscores the urgency of addressing mental health and psychosocial safety among aviation personnel.
The statement, titled “Driving Progress on Mental Health and Psychosocial Safety in Global Aviation,” was released by the Aerospace Medical Association Mental Health Working Group and the Royal Aeronautical Society’ Mental Health Working Group. This landmark document calls for immediate and substantial improvements in mental health strategies across the aviation industry, highlighting the critical connection between mental health and aviation safety.
This document is slowly coming into the public domain as various organisations and individuals sign it. Gerard is the only lawyer in the document and played a major part in the drafting of it. Once signed, we will publish and circulate the final document.
Gerard, known for his expertise in corporate and aviation, emphasises the need for a comprehensive approach that aligns with international standards, such as those set by the International Standards Organisation (ISO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The consensus statement advocates for the development of specific guidance and standards to monitor, manage, and mitigate psychosocial risks among safety-sensitive aviation personnel.
“Addressing mental health in aviation is not just a regulatory necessity but a moral imperative,” Gerard stated. “The well-being of aviation professionals is intrinsically linked to the safety of the passengers and the overall efficiency of the industry. We need robust frameworks that support mental health, reduce stigma, and encourage proactive health management.”
The document references data, including research from Trinity College Dublin revealing significant mental health issues among civil aviation personnel, and findings from a study involving over 5,000 pilots in the US and Canada, which showed high rates of healthcare avoidance due to fears of certification loss. These insights underscore the inadequately managed mental health risks that can impact aviation safety.
This was all precursed by the Royal Aeronautical Society paper on mental health in aviation, published in April 2024. Gerard wrote the legal section of the leading paper.
Gerard Forlin KC’s leadership and commitment to this cause exemplify the crucial role legal professionals play in driving policy changes and advocating for health and safety improvements. His contributions to the consensus statement reflect a deep understanding of the complex interplay between law, health, and industry regulations, positioning him as a key advocate for progressive reforms in aviation mental health policies.
Gerard has worked in over 85 countries, one of a tiny number of UK barristers to have ever achieved this. Described by Chambers and Partners as a “phenomenal court advocate”.
He is the only UK barrister in the Legal 500 ranked in aviation, health and safety, and inquests and inquiries.
