The FAA requires you to obtain a Medical Certificate before flying solo in an airplane, helicopter, gyroplane, or airship. They suggest you get your Medical Certificate before beginning flight training. This will alert you to any condition that would prevent you from becoming a pilot before you pay for lessons.
Per the FAA, third-class—although any class will suffice. Medical Certificates are designated as first-class, second-class, or third-class. Generally, first-class is designed for the airline transport pilot; second-class for the commercial pilot; and third-class for the student, recreational and private pilot.
Yes. Medical Certificates can be issued in many cases where physical disabilities are involved. Depending on the nature of the disability, you may have some operating limitations.
HIMS is an occupational substance abuse treatment program, specific to pilots, that coordinates the identification, treatment, and return to work process for affected aviators. It is an industry-wide effort in which managers, pilots, healthcare professionals, and the FAA work together to preserve careers and enhance air safety.
The HIMS program states that the decision to submit the recovering pilot’s case for FAA certification action is ultimately made by the medical sponsor. This sponsor is an AME (Aviation Medical Examiner) that has been through HIMS training and approved by the FAA to perform this duty.
The goal is to have the pilot in a stable recovery situation with treating professionals in agreement that he is ready for return to flight status. It is not beneficial to allow the case to proceed rapidly. Often recovery will need the passage of time to be effective.
The timeline chart here is helpful in understanding the various components of the FAA submission process.
It should be noted that the time for each step is an estimate. However, each step is an element that must be included in the package submitted to the FAA. We will consider them on an individual basis.
Read more about the FAA HIMS program here
There are a number of selected medical conditions that are initially disqualifying and must be deferred to the AMCD (Aerospace Medical Certification Division) or RFS (Regional Flight Surgeon). We will work together to designate and fulfill personalized criteria for a Special Issuance.
See the list of selected medical conditions here.
At times pilots and potential pilots have situations that they feel may impact their ability to obtain or maintain a Medical Certificate. In general I recommend they consult the FAA website for information but if this is not adequate I am available to discuss the situation as an aeromedical consultation.
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