Methylene Blue Isn’t Just a Supplement—Especially for Pilots
Methylene blue use is disqualifying and not permitted by the FAA while flying. Pilots must stop flying while taking it and obtain aeromedical guidance before returning to flight.
Aviation Medicine Blog
Aviation medicine insights, FAA medical certification guides, HIMS program information, and pilot health topics from experienced aerospace medicine physicians.
FAA’s New PATH for Anxiety & Depression: AASI & Policy Changes
On July 29, 2026, the FAA created a new AME Assisted Special Issuance pathway for certain anxiety, depression, and related-condition renewals. Learn who qualifies, what records PATH requires, and when an AME must still defer.
The New FAA OSA Treated Status Report: Sleep Apnea Certification Just Got Simpler
In May 2026, the FAA replaced its separate initial and recertification OSA status summaries with a single, streamlined OSA Treated Status Report. Here's the history of the FAA's sleep apnea policy, key definitions, how the AME evaluates you, and exactly what treated pilots now need for initial certification and annual renewal.
It's OK to Get Help: New Guidance from the FAA on Psychotherapy & Counseling!
On May 27, 2026, the FAA added new mental health resources to the AME Guide under Item 47, sending pilots and air traffic controllers a clear message: counseling and therapy are encouraged when medically appropriate. Here is what the new guidance says, what it changes (and what it doesn't), and a plain-English look at when therapy needs to be reported on your medical application.
FAA Refractive Eye Surgery Guidance for Pilots: What Changed in August 2025
The FAA quietly rewrote the refractive surgery disposition table on August 27, 2025 — and the change is a big deal for pilots. The extended post-op paper trail from your eye surgeon is gone. Here is exactly what the new rules say for LASIK, PRK, and SMILE, when your AME can issue you in the room, and the one scenario that still triggers a deferral.
Cardiac Calcium Scoring & FAA Medical Certification: What Pilots Need to Know
A coronary artery calcium (CAC) score is one of the best non-invasive tools we have for predicting heart disease — but the results have real consequences for your FAA medical. Here is how the score is calculated, when the FAA wants it, what each number range means for your certification, and why you should talk to your AME before scheduling the scan.
Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis & Schizophrenia: What Pilots Need to Know About FAA Medical Certification
The FAA considers bipolar disorder, psychosis, and schizophrenia among the most serious disqualifying psychiatric conditions for pilots. Understanding why — and the tragic lessons from Germanwings Flight 9525 — is essential for any aviator navigating these challenges.
FAA Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) Policy: The Complete Pilot's Guide
Everything pilots need to know about the FAA's OSA protocol — screening, diagnosis, treatment options, CPAP compliance, AASI certification, and how to keep flying with sleep apnea.
FAA Asthma Guidance: What Pilots Need to Know About Medical Certification
Asthma does not have to ground you. The FAA has clear pathways for pilots with asthma — from same-day CACI certification for mild cases to Special Issuance for more complex situations. Here is a complete breakdown of the FAA's current guidance, required documentation, and what to expect at your AME appointment.
BasicMed Explained: What Pilots Need to Know
BasicMed allows many pilots to fly without a traditional FAA medical certificate. Learn how it works, who qualifies, the limitations, and whether it makes sense for your situation.
VA Disability Ratings and FAA Medical Certification: What Pilots Need to Know
Thousands of military veteran pilots faced FAA investigations after a VA audit revealed inconsistencies between disability benefits and medical certification applications. Learn what happened, how to stay compliant with Item 18y, and how to protect both your VA benefits and your medical certificate.
Pilot Mental Health and Fitness: Breaking the Stigma Around Therapy and Getting Help
Many pilots fear that seeking mental health support — even basic therapy for relationships, stress, or resilience — could jeopardize their medical certificate. The FAA is working to change that narrative. Here is what every pilot needs to know about mental health, the facts behind the myths, and why getting help is not only safe but encouraged.
FAA SODA: Understanding the Statement of Demonstrated Ability
If you have a permanent physical condition like an amputation, monocular vision, or color vision deficiency, a SODA may be your pathway to FAA medical certification without recurring renewals. Here is how the process works from start to finish.
FAA Medical Flight Test (MFT): What Pilots Need to Know
Received a letter requiring a Medical Flight Test? Don't panic. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the MFT process, what to expect, how to prepare, and what a successful outcome looks like for pilots with conditions like vision deficiencies, limb differences, or hearing impairment.
ADHD Fast Track vs. Standard Track
The FAA offers two distinct evaluation pathways for pilots with a history of ADHD or ADHD medication use — the Fast Track and the Standard Track. Understanding which pathway applies to your situation can save you months of waiting, thousands of dollars, and significant stress. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of both.
HIMS AME FAQ's: DUIs, DWIs & Drug/Alcohol Related Events
Get answers to the most common questions about HIMS AMEs, the HIMS program, substance-related FAA medical certification, and what to expect throughout the Special Issuance process.
Combining the ADHD & Depression/Anxiety Fast Tracks
Learn how pilots with both ADHD and a history of anxiety, depression, or related conditions can combine two FAA fast track pathways to expedite their medical certification — potentially saving months or even years.
Introducing the Most Complete AME Search Tool for Pilots
Finding the right Aviation Medical Examiner shouldn't be a hassle. Our new AME Search Tool helps pilots locate qualified flight doctors across all 50 states with powerful filtering options.
Voyage Utah Feature: Dr. Rocky Jedick & the Go Flight Medicine Story
Dr. Rocky Jedick was recently featured in Voyage Utah Magazine, sharing the inspiring journey from USAF flight surgeon to founding Go Flight Medicine — Utah's premier aviation medical practice with 5 clinic locations across Utah and Colorado.
Migraine Headaches: Pilot's Guide to FAA Policy
Learn about the FAA's CACI program for migraines, approved medications with their no-fly periods, and what documentation you need to maintain your medical certificate as a pilot with migraines.
FAA Gender Dysphoria Policy: History, 2025 Changes & Pilot Certification Guide
Complete guide to FAA gender dysphoria medical certification for transgender pilots. Learn about the 2016 policy changes, January 2025 AME Guide updates, and current certification requirements.
2025 FAA Aeromedical Policy Year-in-Review & 2026 Outlook
A comprehensive summary of all major FAA aeromedical policy changes in 2025 and what pilots and AMEs should expect in 2026.
FAA Reduces Antidepressant Wait Time: 6 Months to 3 Months – A Major Win for Pilot Mental Health
The FAA has cut the required stabilization period from 6 months to 3 months for pilots on approved antidepressants seeking Special Issuance medical certification. This landmark policy change significantly reduces barriers to mental health treatment for aviators.
Cardiovascular Fitness for Pilots: Using CAC Scores, CT Angiography, and Exercise Testing
Optimize your FAA cardiovascular evaluation with coronary artery calcium scoring, CT angiography, and stress testing protocols for Class 1 and commercial pilots.
Pilot Mental Health & HIMS Access: Navigating the FAA's Expanded Pathways in 2025
How pilots can leverage new FAA mental health initiatives, HIMS resources, and evidence-based care to maintain certification while addressing anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
2025 FAA Color Vision Testing Pathways: New Options for Class 1 & 2 Pilots
Review the latest FAA-approved color vision tests and understand how pilots can qualify using operational evaluations like OCVT and MFT in 2025.
Sleep Apnea Compliance in 2025: Meeting FAA CPAP & Telemonitoring Expectations
A step-by-step FAA medical roadmap for pilots with obstructive sleep apnea, including CPAP compliance downloads, telemonitoring requirements, and alternative treatments.
Can Pilots Fly After Wegovy or Zepbound? FAA Guidance on GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs
Understanding FAA policy on GLP-1 weight-loss medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Zepbound, and how pilots can maintain or regain their medical certification in 2025.
Mandatory Digital Color Vision Testing Update - Live 1 January 2025
On 4 December 2024, at an educational 'Grand Rounds' for Aviation Medical Examiners, the FAA announced some very big changes to their color vision testing policy and medical standards. These changes will go live on 1 January 2025.
FAA Policy on ED Meds - Cockpit Reliability
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is an incredibly common condition that can cause psychological distress and negatively affect one's well being. Although they may not believe it, pilots like the rest of the population may have issues in this area and want to pursue a prescription to treat ED. It's important for pilots to be aware of the FAA policy on these medications.
New Anxiety, Depression FAST TRACK Pathway for Deferred Cases
This completely new pathway is meant to address many of the applicants and pilots currently deferred for mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD and a number of other conditions.
FAA Policy for Pilots with Color Vision Deficiency
Color vision is crucial for pilots, as it plays a significant role in interpreting instrument readings, navigating airspace, and ensuring overall flight safety. If you potentially suffer from color vision deficiency (CVD), it is critical you understand the FAA policy on color vision testing and the possible implications on your flight career.
FAA renames the 'SSRI Protocol' & approves 3 New Antidepressants
Today the FAA published the newest AME guide by adding three new antidepressants [duloxetine (Cymbalta) venlafaxine (Effexor), desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)] and changing the name of the entire Antidepressant Protocol.
FAA MED NOTAM: Three New Antidepressants Approved for Special Issuance!
Exciting news! The FAA just released a bulletin that three additional antidepressants will soon be approved for special issuance. This new policy goes live on 24 April 2024!
Weight & Balance: Navigating FAA Policy on Weight Loss Meds
Weight loss medications may promise rapid results, but for pilots, safety always comes first. Before considering any medication – especially those that could impact your ability to fly – it's essential to consult with an AME and fully understand the FAA's policies and regulations.
The Parallels between DOT Medical Exams & FAA Medical Certification
Much like the rigorous health assessments endured by top aviators, DOT medical exams are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of commercial truck drivers – our modern-day aerial champions of the open road.
Lazy Eye: Strabimus & Phorias
A strabismus, also known as a 'lazy eye' or 'crossed eyes' is a relatively common condition affecting 2-4% of the population. Both strabismus and phorias raise concerns related to depth perception, binocular vision, and overall visual acuity.
ADHD Fast Track Pathway
In Aug 2023, in an effort to expedite medical certification, the FAA created a new Fast Track process for pilots with a distant history of ADHD. This new pathway allows the pilot or pilot applicant to avoid FAA deferral and get their medical certificate on day of the exam.
Do Pilots Have Perfect Vision?
I've heard many non-pilots complain that they had a distant dream to fly as a child, but their non-perfect vision prevented them from being able to do so. But is this really true?
FAA Corner: When do I need an EKG?
Do you know when an EKG is required for a commercial pilot? Read more to find out!
How to Find a Good Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
An Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) is a doctor with specialized training in aerospace medicine and designated by the FAA to issue medical certificates. It is critical that every pilot and ATC choose a trustworthy and knowledgable AME.
A day in the life of a U2 Spy Plane Flight Doc
This guest post authored by former U2 flight surgeon, Dr Alec FEEL Good, describes an epic flight surgeon assignment culminating with a once-in-a-lifetime sortie in this iconic cold war spy plane.
What is a CACI Condition?
CACI conditions stand for medical conditions that are Conditions an AME Can Issue, which means they are medical problems that AME's can issue a certificate without FAA intervention.
Serving in Residency
This guest post by Lt Col Robert SOJU Ryu discusses his experiences serving in the ANG flying F-16's as a flight surgeon while doubling as an orthopedic surgery resident during his normal day job!
Building a USAF Flight Surgeon: A New Approach to Training
The USAF has decided to fully recreate the way a flight surgeon is made. Read this guest post from 'The AMP Daddy', Lt Col Bryant 'THUNDA' Martin on how this new training regiment will unfold.
Want to work for Elon Musk?
Check out this cutting edge job post - Space X is looking for a new flight surgeon to join the team!
FAA & USAF Guidance for COVID-19 Vaccines
As a pilot or ATCS, you are affected by guidance that does not necessarily affect the general population. Read more in this post to learn about the latest policy from the FAA and USAF regarding COVID-19 and the new mRNA vaccine.
Should I get the COVID-19 Vaccine?
One year into this global pandemic and now we have an entirely novel mRNA vaccine. What is the benefit to you and society? What are the risks? Read more to learn if you should get the COVID19 vaccine.
Important Dates: FAA Certificate Extensions for COVID19
Knowledge is power. The FAA has modified the standard medical certification process to account for the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more about FAA Certificate Extensions due to COVID-19.
GI Bill in GME Residency
You may not be aware, but it is possible to collect the GI Bill during residency to help augment your salary and living expenses. Read further as we describe how I was able to get paid as a veteran during residency.
Flattening the Curve Revisited
Is there truly wisdom in this concept of flattening the curve or is it just a buzz word?
FAA Medical Certification during COVID19 Pandemic
This post covers the FAA's updated policy regarding medical certification during the unprecedented COVID19 pandemic.
(Another) ER Doctor's Ramblings on Coronavirus
These are polarizing times indeed! Here is one ER doctor's attempt to shed some light and a touch of reason on a confusing and hotly debated topic.
Phiz Biz: Aug & Sep - Exercise & Fitness Pearls
This Phiz Biz newsletter discusses the importance of exercise and the need for a USAF fitness assessment for pilots and aviators.
Medical Standards iOS (iPhone) App
Coming to an App Store near you! The 'Medical Standards' app was created by Capt Colby Uptegraft as a way to keep all your DoD medical standards in your pocket!
Phiz Biz: GFM Partners with USAF Aerospace Physiologists
Welcome to Phiz Biz! This newsletter packed with morsels of aerospace physiology tips was first created by a few USAF physiologists and technicians.
#AsMA2018 & THE FOAMed MOVEMENT
Free Open Access Medical Education (FOAMed) has revolutionized medical education by providing incredibly up to date free and entertaining content available to all. But why does aerospace medicine seem to be behind many other specialities?
Too Old to Fly? - Age Limits & Waivers for Military Pilots
One question I receive on the regular is what the age limits are for pilots. This post will address this question and let you know...are you too old to fly?!
Pilot Education: LASER Exposure & Eye Injury
This blog post summarizes LASER eye injuries, but it is written for an audience of pilots and other aircrew at risk of these injuries. Learn how to prevent and treat these injuries before they happen!
Become an Aviation Medical Examiner Today!
An Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) is a doctor with specialized training in aerospace medicine and designated by the FAA to issue medical certificates. But how does an interested medical professional become an AME?
Spitfire 944 - WWII Flight Surgeon Footage
This fun blog post summarizes the short 14 minute documentary featured in the 2007 Sundance Film Festival and it won't leave you disappointed.
LASER Eye Injuries in Aircrew
LASER eye injuries are an ever-present threat to pilots and aircrew. This blog post covers the pathophysiology to these very unique threats to a pilot's vision.
Top Knife - Fighter Pilot Tactics for Flight Docs
Top Knife is an incredible opportunity for USAF flight surgeons in which students spend 2 weeks engrossed in academics and operations in combat aviation.
In Flight Emergency - Cabin Pressure & Hypoxia
This blog post describes a recent in-flight emergency (IFE) I experienced that reminded me exactly why military aircrew train in the altitude chamber.
Clearing Your Ears
Gases in the sinuses and middle ear expand as altitude increases and pressure decreases. This phenomenon can cause a world of hurt to pilots. It is important for the aviator to be familiar with techniques to equalize the external pressure with the middle ears.
Fitness for Flight - Mental Health & Antidepressants
In March 2014 an Airbus 320 carrying 150 passengers crashed in the French Alps killing all souls on board. It was later discovered that Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz had been struggling with depression.
From the Cockpit to the Hospital - CRM for Docs
Medicine has much to learn from the aviation community. This rings most true when it comes to the transparency and focus on safety when addressing past mistakes.
U.S. Military Aerospace Physiology
This guest post explores the history and continued relevance of aerospace physiology in the military and beyond.
Does Bilberry Extract Improve Night Vision in Pilots?
Some supplement makers have promoted Bilberry Extract as a means to improve night vision. The implications for a pilot are obvious. But does it really work?
The Golden Age
Its a habit of human nature to glorify the past. So what truth is there to a long-forgotten Golden Age of Medicine or Aviation. Click & Find Out!
The USAF Pilot-Physician Program
The USAF Pilot-Physician program was created in order to form a unique cooperative partnership between the medical and pilot communities.
Gas Laws in Aerospace Physiology
This post is a review of the gas laws that play a role in aerospace physiology and medicine. Read more!
Dr Story Musgrave - Physician, Pilot, Astronaut
Neurosurgeon, USAF & NASA test pilot, mathematician, author, public speaker, trauma surgeon, NASA astronaut. Overachiever? This is the life of Dr Story Musgrave!
Ground Collision Avoidance Technology
Ground Collision Avoidance Technology (GCAT) was developed by NASA and employed in multiple military fighter aircraft in order to save pilot lives and prevent unnecessary loss of aircraft.
Fatigue Risk Management Systems
Fatigue is one of the most dangerous and insidious threats to flight safety.
Aviation Podcast 'Slipstream Radio' Features GFM
In January 2014, F-22 Raptor driver and creator of TallyOne, Rob 'Shotz' Burgon partnered with commercial aviator Brent Owens of iFlyBlog to create a unique podcast for aviation enthusiasts called Slipstream Radio.
Fellowships in Wilderness Medicine
The niche medical specialty known as Wilderness Medicine is not officially a subset of Aerospace Medicine, but similarities abound. There are a variety of fellowship training opportunities at residencies across the country.
Investigating Pilot Error in Plane Crashes: A Human Factors Analysis
The FAA, DoD, and NASA has a very specific and intentional approach to mishap analysis after a devastating accident. Learn more about this approach that has led to aviation becoming the safest and most reliable form of transportation in the modern era.
The Risk of Flight – Training Accidents
This guest post written by F-22 pilot and owner of Tally One Rob SHOTZ Burgon discusses the controversial topic of in-flight training mishaps.
Why do Flight Surgeons Fly?
There are a variety of reasons why the Department of Defense requires their flight surgeons to fly a minimum of hours monthly in their assigned primary aircraft. Some of these reasons are historic or circumstantial, while others are more strategic.
Ebola Guidance for Healthcare Workers (HCW's)
Check out the new CDC guidance for healthcare workers regarding the recent Ebola outbreak.
KLM-Panam Tenerife Disaster
The KLM-Panam disaster in Tenerife still remains the most deadly aircraft mishap in history. This tragedy in which 583 souls perished still offers a number of lessons learned.
Military Health Systems Final Report Released
The final report for the 90-day review that Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel called for in July 2014 was released on 1 October 2014. See the details and summary to this ground-breaking review here.
Dietary Supplements in Aircrew
Vitamins, minerals, supplements and medications are all essentially bioactive chemicals. Some convey benefits, some convey risks and some can provoke both benefits and risks to those who take them.
Incentive & Familiarization Flights in Military Fighter Jets
Incentive and familiarization flights are often offered to military personnel as a means of rewarding the troops and introducing them to air operations.
The NY Times Attack on Mil Med Continues
Check out this defense of military medicine after another piece of poorly investigated NYT journalism makes unfounded attacks on the military healthcare system.
Cosmic Radiation
Radiation presents a unique and often unappreciated risk to pilots and astronauts. Galactic Cosmic Rays (GCR's) are considered a threat to aviators, flight crews and frequent air travelers.
Ebola Risk & Response for Airlines
In 2014, there was a large outbreak of Ebola that involved 4 Western African countries. The extreme contagiousness of this disease combined with the globalization of the modern world led to a variety of new policies.
Flight Medicine for Civilian Physicians
How civilian physicians can get involved in aviation medicine.
A Defense of Military Medicine
A scathing editorial from the New York Times published on 23 June 2014 attacked military healthcare delivery and suggested that it delivers a far inferior form of medicine than the civilian system.
Night Vision in Aviation
Understanding how night vision works and its importance in aviation.
Tarnak Farm - Reckless Pilots, Speed, or Fog of War?
In 2002, a tragic friendly-fire incident occurred when 2 American F-16 pilots dropped bombs on a Canadian infantry unit killing 4 and injuring many others.
Stimulants & Sleep Aids in Military Aviation
There has been considerable controversy and discussion about Go and No-Go Pills in combat aviation. These performance enhancing medications have even been blamed for major mishaps.
United Airlines 173 - The Need for CRM
The tragic United 173 mishap in 1978 that killed almost 200 souls led to the creation of Crew Resource Management (CRM). The legacy of this famous airplane crash still plays a crucial role in aviation safety even today.
Ejection Seat Safety & Reliability Improvement Program
Dive into the reliability of pilot ejection seats in this blog post. Explore the crucial factors ensuring safe pilot ejection, from design intricacies to maintenance protocols.
Combat Stress Response & Tactical Breathing
Discover the unique stressors faced by fighter pilots. Explore the psychological resilience, coping mechanisms, and training crucial for mission success amidst high-stakes environments.
Thermal Stress in the Cockpit
Dive into the fascinating world of thermal stresses in aviation with our latest blog post. From engine components to airframe materials, discover how temperature variations impact aircraft performance and safety.
Seeking Truth in Medicine
Trying to discover what is objectively true in the modern world of deep fakes, social engineering and mixed incentives can be a complicated task. This holds true just as much in modern medical science as any other academic discipline.
JFK Jr Piper Saratoga Mishap
There are some wild conspiracy theories describing how JFK Jr met his untimely tragic death. But here's what actually happened per the mishap report!
So You Want to be a Flight Surgeon?
A comprehensive guide to becoming a military flight surgeon.
The Diploma in Mountain Medicine (DiMM)
Looking for a job at Everest ER? If this is a career goal of yours, you need to strongly consider acquiring a Diploma of Mountain Medicine (DiMM).
First Fatal Mishap in Powered Flight - Orville Wright & Lt Selfridge
Almost 5 years after the historic birth of controlled flight at Kitty Hawk, an updated version of the Wright Flyer was involved in the first fatal aircraft mishap in powered flight.
Combating Fighter Pilot Fatigue
Pilot fatigue is a constant threat to all aircrew. For a number of reasons, aviation is a tiring business and even well-rested pilots will find themselves fatigued from the physical and mental demands of flight operations.
First American Physician in Space: Dr. Joseph P. Kerwin
Dr Joseph Kerwin was selected as a scientist-astronaut by NASA in 1965 and served as science pilot for the Skylab 2 mission from May to June in 1973. Learn more about this pioneer in space medicine.
A Primer on Aerospace Medicine
An introduction to the field of aerospace medicine for medical professionals.
Be a Better G-Monster: The Anti-G Straining Maneuver (AGSM)
The Anti-G Straining Maneuver (AGSM) is a technique that modern fighter pilots use to remain conscious despite being exposed to huge forces of gravity (G's).
Pilot Medical Certificate Classes
Understanding the differences between Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 medical certificates.
Trapped Gas - Air Expansion at Altitude
Ear blocks, sinus squeezes and increased flatulence are all consequences of trapped gas expanding in the human body as one increases their altitude away from sea level.
Aeromedical Standards & Fitness for Flight
In order to become a pilot, one must be medically cleared by completing a flying class physical exam. As expected the medical standards differ depending on the type of pilot or aircrew position that is pursued.
Hypoxia in Aviation
Discover the dangers of hypoxia in aviation, a silent threat at high altitudes affecting pilots' abilities. Learn about its symptoms, impact on aircraft operation, and crucial safety measures.
Decompression Illness in Aviation
Decompression Illness is a comprehensive term that includes both Decompression Sickness and Arterial Gas Embolism that occur when living organisms are exposed to hypobaric (low pressure) changes.
Pulling G's - The Effects of G-Forces on the Human Body
Explore the world of G-forces in aviation and their impact on pilots, from G-LOC to circulatory and respiratory strain. Delve into the science behind these powerful forces and the innovative techniques used in aerospace medicine.
Spatial Disorientation
What happens when you take a terrestrial bi-pedal animal like a human and put them in a quickly accelerating aircraft that adds an additional dimension to any possible motion? Well, you run the risk for sudden, incapacitating disorientation.