Here are the psychological tests EU pilots need to pass

Lufthansa didn’t need to do extra psychological monitoring, routine tests should have been enough

Andreas Lubitz, the 28-year-old Germanwings co-pilot believed to have deliberately crashed an Airbus into the French Alps, had passed a number of tests that showed that he was fit to fly.

Lufthansa CEO Carsten Spohr told reporters that Lubitz had not undergone any special psychological tests since training, however, the routine procedure should have been enough to show problems.

According to the procedure overseen by the European Aviation Safety Agency, pilots are evaluated every six months if over 40 years, and annually, if younger. Part of the evaluation Lubitz had received was psychiatric.

Medical tests are complex and require pilots to legally declare if they have experienced any psychological trauma or issues. Along with other exams they undergo simulator testing every 6-12 months that gauge alertness, but can also reveal mental problems. Their mood, possible abuse of alcohol and other facets of their well-being are also examined.

During these tests doctors evaluate the pilots’ appearance, speech, perception, intellect and insight.