Our Stories
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!
April 1, 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. In this post, we cover the FAA's most up to date policy on the dynamic topic of weight loss medications.
March 31, 2024
by Rocky Jedick MD, MBA
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.
March 22, 2024
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. These conditions can potentially affect a pilot's ability to safely operate an aircraft, especially during critical phases of flight.
March 4, 2024
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. But it is critical that airmen work with their AME's PRIOR TO their appointment if they want to take advantage of the new fast track.
February 12, 2024
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?
March 5, 2023
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!
November 5, 2022
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. But how does one find a solid AME?
November 22, 2021
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.
October 1, 2021
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. These conditions tend to have a high prevalence, are somewhat progressive in nature and are considered low risk for sudden incapacitation
August 13, 2021