AMEPilot

AMEPilot logo first edition spring 2019The Original AMEPilot with Dr. Hanker (still found below) has unfortunately ended. SCAUWG wants to extend a big. "Thank You" to Dr. Hanker for his invaluable contributions to this page.

Going Forward, this page will be devoted to those articles whose topics concern

Medical Information for Pilots.

 

Preface:        (New Content Follows Preface}

          Aviation Medical Examiner Information Links:

Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners

Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) portal (GO AME)

AME Seminar Schedule & Registration

AME Online Training Information

AMCS Online Support

Regional Flight Surgeon Contact Info

Aeromedical Safety Brochures

Medical Certification Information

MedXPress Login & Help

AME Minute Playlist

Pilot Minute Playlist

CAMI Library Services

          Sleep Apnea Information:

OSA Protocol

OSA Information Brochure

 

Let's Begin:

09/17/2025

A Fascinating Informative Article from Air & Space Forces Magazine.  Finish Reading Here.

09/14/2025   Mental Health in Aviation Act Moves to Senate - From AVweb - "Bill aims to reduce barriers to help and modernize FAA regulations around mental health in aviation. - The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Mental Health in Aviation Act of 2025 on September 9. First introduced by Representatives Sean Casten of Illinois and Pete Stauber of Minnesota, the legislation would require the FAA to revise medical certification regulations in order to help pilots and air traffic controllers seek treatment and voluntarily disclose mental health conditions with fewer professional barriers or potential implications.

The act calls for the FAA to consult with aviation labor groups, medical examiners, and other stakeholders while drafting new rules. It also directs the agency to conduct annual reviews of its mental health special issuance process, reclassify and approve additional medications, and expand examiner training."  Read About It Here.

08/30/2025    VA disability and FAA medicals - From AOPA - "The past few years have been tumultuous for pilots receiving medical disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs." Continue

08/23/2025   Generative AI Powers Parkinson’s Drug Development - From AI*Business - Insilico Medicine said its novel medication could be a “paradigm shift” in Parkinson’s treatment - A biotech company using generative AI for drug development has announced a new “potentially transformative” therapy for Parkinson’s disease. - Insilico Medicine said the orally available drug, ISM8969, was developed using its proprietary Pharma.AI platform. The generative AI-powered solution is used for the design of novel molecules with potential applications across biology, chemistry, medicine development and science research. - ISM8969 completed initial studies with favorable results. Assessed across three motor capability tests, the drug was shown to improve motor abilities in mice treated with the medication."   Continue Here.

08/23/2025   NASA, Google Testing AI for Medical Care in Space - From AI * Business - "The new tool could help astronauts diagnose and treat medical issues without real-time contact with Earth - Google and NASA have announced a new partnership to bring AI-enabled medical care to spaceflights. - The news comes as NASA prepares for its new Artemis mission to return to the Moon, with investigations underway into how to conduct remote diagnoses and treatments to crew without a physician or when real-time communication with Earth may not be possible. - “Supporting crew health through space-based medical care is becoming increasingly important as NASA missions venture deeper into space,” the partners said in a statement."  Continue Here.

8/23/2025    Exploring the Relationship between Operational Errors and Color Vision Deficiency

Authors: Crutchfield, Jerry

We analyzed Operational Error (OE) data and data from the Office of Aerospace Medicine that identified 87 Color Vision Deficient (CVD) Air Traffic Control Specialists (ATCSs) to explore the relationship of color vision deficiency with the occurrence of OEs. Our first analysis searched 70 OE narratives, recorded across 12 years, for OEs where CVD ATCSs were involved. We found no reports that identified color vision or the inability to distinguish colors as a possible contributor to a loss of separation. Next, we attempted to determine if CVD ATCSs were involved in a similar number of OEs as their Color Vision Normal (CN) co-workers. We compared number of OEs occurring from 1995 to 2006 for 87 ATCSs identified as CVD with two sets of matched pairs of CN ATCSs to determine if CVD ATCSs were at a greater risk of being involved in an OE as compared to CN ATCS. We matched CVD ATCSs with CN ATCSs who had the same number of years of experience, worked in the same type of facilities, and were approximately the same age. The comparison of the number of OEs between the three groups was inconclusive due to the small effect size associated with the occurrence of OEs and the resulting lack of statistical power. However, a significant difference was found between the number of OEs in which CVD ATCSs were implicated during the time period from 2001 to 2006 as compared with the time period from 1995 to 2000. The number of OEs in which CVD ATCSs were involved went up after the introduction of ATC display systems in the year 2000 that made more use of color.  No. of Pages: 26

07/20/2025   The science of aging - From AOPA - "The Secret Antidote to Growing Old - "A while back one of the posts was on “The Fountain of Youth“ where I talked about new meds that slowed down some of the ill effects of getting older. We also talked about other factors in our environment and diet that accelerated aging in the post on “We’re Not Aging Well.” That, and the stuff about THC, was all about the symptoms of getting old; there wasn’t anything there about the basic process and science of aging, so let’s get to it. - There are three ways we think about aging. The first is appearance, and in these days of social media “influencers” that one gets the most attention, even though it’s the least important of the three."  Full Article Here.

07/18/2025     Pilot Incapacitation Suspected In California Incident - From AVweb - "Cessna Corvalis single dropped off of radar about 2.5 hours after overflying its destination airport. - An incident over the weekend is raising concerns over the problem of pilot incapacitation. On Sunday afternoon, Cessna T240 Corvalis TTx (N636CS) departed from Ramona Airport (KRNM) in California for a short flight to Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport (KMYF) in San Diego. While about 8 miles from the destination airport, the pilot accepted a clearance to intercept the final approach course for Runway 28R. It was the last communication received from N636CS."  Continue.

07/14/2025   Mayo Clinic Concept: Remote Flight Physicals - From Aviation Consumer -  "As the field of AMEs continues to thin and demand for FAA medical certification rises, kiosk-based flight physicals could make a lot of sense. -

he respected Mayo Clinic’s Aerospace Medicine department seems the perfect clinical advisor to the FAA, particularly at a time when the agency’s medical certification division can’t seem to keep up with demand.

Moreover, with large health care companies buying up mom-and-pop medical practices, there’s a huge shortage of AMEs available to administer exams and issue medical certificates. That’s grounding otherwise capable and fit pilots. With virtual medical visits common in the pedestrian world, why not virtual visits with AMEs, too? - Through biometric software embedded in exam kiosks, the Clinic is working on a proof of concept to show that it is possible for a pilot to use an app to set up a visit and coordinate with a remote examiner. Still in a pretty rudimentary stage, the Clinic has simulated roughly 20 pilots through the kiosk concept."  Finish Reading Here.

07/11/3025   Court Orders FAA To Explain Mental Health Drug Denial - From AVweb - "Judges want to know why some effective antidepressants can't be used by pilots. - The FAA has to give better reasons for denying a former airline pilot a medical for taking an unapproved anti-depressant drug. In a decision released June 27 by three judges of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit’s, the agency was told to provide more solid rationale for its categorical ban on the drug mirtazapine. Michael Solondz was put on Lexapro for anxiety in 2018 after going through a rough patch with the death of his father. That drug is on the FAA’s list of conditionally approved anti-depressants, but it caused unwanted side effects for Solondz. His doctor switched him to mirtazapine and it effectively treated the anxiety without the side effects. But mirtazapine is not on the FAA’s list of conditionally approved antidepressants and it has blocked Solondz from restoring his medical. The judges stopped short of telling the FAA to approve the medical but they want a better explanation of why the drug that doesn’t work for Solondz is approved and the one that does work for him can’t be. - The judges noted that even if Lexapro worked for Solondz, there was no guarantee he..."   Continue Here.

06/21/2025   FAA updates MedXPress to speed up medical certification - From AOPA -  "The FAA has updated the MedXPress system to streamline the medical certification process, the first of “many steps” the agency plans to take to make it “clearer and faster. - Changes stem from AOPA, industry feedback - The updated MedXPress landing page now features (under the “Help” tab) links to resources such as system guides, an FAQ, an aviation medical examiner (AME) locator, and the FAA’s online Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners. - The goal is to help applicants better prepare their medical submissions before visiting an AME, reducing the need for time-consuming requests for additional information. - Among the updates are new on-screen prompts that encourage applicants to review requirements for any known medical conditions in advance. First-time users are also provided with...
" Read More Here.

06/18/2025    Mayo Clinic Concept: Remote Flight Physicals - As the field of AMEs continues to thin and demand for FAA medical certification rises, kiosk-based flight physicals could make a lot of sense. - From Aviation Consumer -  "Mayo Clinic has played an important role in aviation medical certification since 1920, when several of the Clinic’s docs served as the first pilot medical examiners for the Civil Aeronautics Board, the precursor to the FAA. Contributions include developing the first high-altitude pressure chamber in North America, a simulator for training World War II pilots, plus the BLB supplemental oxygen mask and the A-14 mask and bailout bottle. It’s a rich heritage and while there is a lot more aeromedical research needed, the 2021 pandemic put a lot of studies on hold because pilots couldn’t come to the Clinic. That turned out to be a unique opportunity that leads to the question of whether in-person FAA medical exams are even necessary. - Today a large focus of the Mayo Clinic’s Aerospace Medicine division (in conjunction with the FAA) is developing a plan for ..."  Continue Here.

05/24/2025   InFO 25005, Transportation of Human Organs in the Cabin of an Aircraft used in Title 14 Code of the Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Part 121 Operations, has been published. - This InFO provides information to air carriers conducting part 121 operations on the transport of human organs in the cabin of an aircraft - The InFO can be viewed by downloading the attached .pdf files or by clicking on the following link,
https://www.faa.gov/other_visit/aviation_industry/airline_operators/airline_safety/info/all_infos/

05/11/2025     Understanding Seizures - From AOPA - "As an adjective, fit implies good general health, meeting the requirements to pilot an aircraft, and clothing that is size-appropriate.  - Epilepsy is derived from Greek epilambanein, meaning to seize or attack because the person involved may be overwhelmed when it happens. Seizures occur when there are brief episodes of..."   Get the data you need, Click or Tap: Understanding seizures

05/11/2025   Historic FAA Decision: Pilot with Active ICD Granted Special Issuance Medical Certificate - From AOPA"Barnett Law Offices recently represented a Delta Air Lines pilot who suffered a cardiac arrest while operating a 777 from Frankfurt, Germany, to Chicago in May of 2020. - The captain was able to resuscitate the pilot, a first officer, after using CPR and the on-board emergency defibrillator. The flight diverted to Canada because of the emergency created by the pilot’s cardiac arrest. The pilot was initially treated in Canada and received an active ICD, which allows for continuous monitoring of his heart function, and, if needed, can deliver an electronic shock to bring the heart back into rhythm."  Full Article Here.

05/11/2025  Title and Subtitle: Spatial Disorientation in Fatal General Aviation Accidents (2003 – 2021) - FAA - "The incidence of spatial disorientation (SD) during flight poses a distinct threat in general aviation (GA) due to the high fatality risk associated with its occurrence. While historical analyses have examined the incidence of SD in GA accidents, little current research exists. This research examines fatal GA accidents associated with SD from 2003 to 2021 and investigates the pilot demographics, flight characteristics, and environment conditions associated with these accidents to identify potential risk factors and compares these findings with previous historical analyses." Full-Text PDF:Spatial Disorientation in Fatal General Aviation Accidents (2003 – 2021)

04/28/2025   FAA Seeks Input on Improving Medical Process - Thursday, April 24, 2025

WASHINGTON — The FAA will immediately begin evaluating suggestions that aviation stakeholders offered during a listening session Wednesday about improving the airman medical process.

“I like to talk about safety being a team sport and certainly this is part of that process to make things better,” Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau said in his opening remarks. “Clearly there are things that are not working for everyone.”

Rocheleau also delivered some welcome news: the FAA will not proceed with a plan to issue initial denials to pilots who provide incomplete examinations or paperwork.

“There was a lot of [stakeholder] feedback, and we took it seriously and we are not going to do that,” he said.

FAA Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup began the session by explaining the challenges the agency faces in evaluating medical certificate applications and initiatives it’s pursuing to speed up the process.

Challenges include record high applications, which reached about 450,000 in 2024 compared to a recent annual average of about 385,000; a doubling of Special Issuance medical certificates since 2019, which take more work to process; and incomplete information on airmen’s submissions.

FAA initiatives include improving the online MedXPress portal and FAA-industry working groups tasked with modernizing the medical process including continuing the work of an earlier mental health rulemaking committee.

One clear message from stakeholder participants was that they’re eager to help explain how the FAA has improved the process so far, to dispel misconceptions about timelines. The groups also collaboratively developed a checklist on how to prepare for a medical exam, which they will begin distributing to their members.

They offered a host of creative ideas for improving the process, including:

  • Create a plain-language version of the Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners so pilots can better understand requirements.
  • Clarify confusing questions on medical certificate application forms.
  • Encourage pilots to report medical conditions by providing information about how long it takes to resolve common issues.
  • Identify the top five diagnoses by age group and provide information on how to address them, using flow charts or checklists.
  • Create a webpage with QR codes that lead to information on common conditions.
  • Recruit pilots to do video testimonials about how their conditions were resolved.

Participants included representatives from the Air Line Pilots Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Allied Pilots Association, Coalition of Airline Pilots Associations, Experimental Aircraft Association, Independent Pilots Association, National Association of Flight Instructors, National Business Aviation Association, National Flight Training Alliance, Southwest Airlines Pilots Association, and Vertical Aviation International.

04/26/2025   FAA withdraws medical denial policy proposal - From AOPA - "Instead, FAA partners with AOPA, industry on pilot medical education campaign - The FAA announced during a meeting with aviation industry organizations on April 23 that it will not implement its proposed policy that would have replaced the longstanding practice of deferring incomplete medical applications with issuing immediate denials."  Continue Here.

04/20/2025   Fit? - "As an adjective, fit implies good general health, meeting the requirements to pilot an aircraft, and clothing that is size-appropriate. - Epilepsy is derived from Greek epilambanein, meaning to seize or attack because the person involved may be overwhelmed when it happens. Seizures occur when there are brief episodes of abnormal electrical activity generalized across the entire brain or very focal. If the latter, the symptoms experienced are predictable based on which part of the brain is firing randomly. They can result from many causes, including bacterial, viral, or other infectious diseases causing swelling of the brain or its surrounding membranes, the meninges (hence meningitis) and high fevers from other infections, especially in children."  Continue Here.
04/13/2025   11 carry-on items you can bring onboard at any size
  • Over-the-counter medications
  • Prescription medications in gel, liquid or aerosol form
  • Ice packs or gel packs for medically necessary items
  • Food and drink for infants and toddlers
  • Wet batteries
  • Live fish transported in water
  • Biological specimens
  • Breast milk or baby formula
  • Liquid-filled teethers
  • Duty-free items sealed in a tamper-evident bag
  • Fresh eggs

However, bear in mind that not every airport has adopted this rule yet, so it's crucial to check each airport's rules on their website before you depart.

04/07/2025   More Smoke - "Last month I used this space to talk about the risks from vaping and cigarette smoke. Recent events in California with the tragic out-of-control wildfires call for a more detailed look at the health risks of smoke from other sources that also get into our lungs. For me it’s a very personal issue, having moved here to the southeast from Southern California.- The air pollution from smoke and airborne particles generated by the fires is a toxic cauldron of petrochemicals, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide. When wildfires burn up whole communities, particulate matter from chemicals, plastics, insulation, construction materials, and home furnishings is scattered into the air. This particulate matter carried in the wind poses a real public health threat from both short- and long-term exposures. While particles from wildfire smoke vary in size, about 90% of the particle mass emitted consists of fine granules that are about the size of a single human hair. These little beasts are coated with all sorts of noxious junk including acids (specifically sulfuric acid), inorganic compounds like ammonium sulfate, ammonium nitrate, sodium chloride, petrochemicals, organic chemicals, soot, metals, soil or dust particles, and biological materials such as pollen and mold spores. - Find out more of the ways you can be affected Here.

04/07/2025    Operational Human Factors Considerations for Head-Worn Display (HWD) Usage in Civil Aviation

Full-Text PDF: Operational Human Factors Considerations for Head-Worn Display (HWD) Usage in Civil Aviation

Authors: Susindar, S., Ferris, T., Valasek, J., Fojtik, E., Brown, M., Pugh, K., Marcario, C., and King, T.

"Advanced visual display systems, such as Head-Up Displays (HUDs), Helmet-Mounted Displays (HMDs), and Head-Worn Displays (HWDs), have been used in military aviation since the 1960s and have been increasingly introduced in general and commercial aviation cockpits. The evolution of in-cockpit technology has ushered in fundamental changes in how pilots receive and process flight-relevant information. Flight operations proceed very differently in cockpits outfitted with traditional head-down display (HDD) configurations compared to those that support viewing/interacting with HUDs, HWDs, and other types of advanced visual displays. The physical and cognitive demands placed on pilots are also impacted by the use of these technologies. Therefore, it is important to understand the nature of these interactions, the demands imposed, and the implications of display system features for safe and effective aviation, communication, and navigation. This report details a hybrid narrative and systematic literature review of human factors issues related to aviation applications of HWDs and other advanced visual displays. It summarizes the scientific findings of studies on HWD usage and compiles evidence that can inform recommendations for the usage of HWDs in civil aviation."  No. of Pages: 101

04/05/2025   Flight Rules Change For Pregnant Military Pilots - "Pregnant U.S. military pilots can fly to 32 weeks after taking the first three months off. - Pregnant military pilots have had their wings clipped but also received an extension in their flying window under new rules announced by the Pentagon. The military says flying will be banned during the first trimester, when the chance of miscarriage is greatest, but after the first 13 weeks they can actually keep flying for longer, up to the 32nd week instead of 28 weeks. Flying anything with an ejection seat is banned for the full term of the pregnancy. - To fly while pregnant, military pilots have to apply for a medical waiver, and..."  Finish reading Here.

03/17/2025   Guest Blog: FAA Quietly Adds Special Issuance Medical Expiry Dates - "Some special issuances come with an end date that other medicals don’t have. - Sometimes, medical certificate applicants find themselves outside the "four corners" of Part 67. Such persons can still apply for (and be issued) medical certificates under the discretionary issuance Section 67.401. However, such persons are typically then subjected to an alternative set of eligibility requirements that exist only in a policy document called the Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners ("GAME"). While the GAME is publicly available, it is directed at AAM designees, and AAM changes it regularly without advance notice to the public. - AAM has begun in the last few years to sometimes impose a “drop-dead” date in the Limitations section of some "special issuance" medical certificates."  Find out more Here.

03/16/2025   Counterfeit Medicines - "Heard the one about the chap claiming to be a professional counterfeiter? He had the documents to prove it! Counterfeit derives from Old Frenchcontre (counter or against) and faire (to make), the combined meaning to make an imitation.” - "In the example above I reference statins; buying online might bypass the doctor asking key questions that could mitigate medical risk. Another example is purchasing drugs to treat erectile dysfunction (https://pilot-protection-services.aopa.org/news/2022/april/01/dont-come-crying-to-me-when-youre-the-lonely-one), which has many causes, including emotional stressors, low testosterone and serious cardiovascular disease. Men who develop ED should see their doctor and not just buy a solution online; it is dangerous!"  - Read the FULL STORY Here - It is Important.

03/16/2025   Cherokee County man cured of sickle cell anemia complications at Atlanta hospital, he says - "Kyle Registre has known since he was a child that he wanted to become a pilot. But, as he got older, he realized having sickle cell disease would make flying a challenge. VIDEO - "Georgia man pursues pilot license despite sickle cell" - Story and Video Here.

03/16/2025   No rewards for fighting fatigue - "When I began my flying career, it was common for pilots to be derided for calling in sick or fatigued. In fact, management often made enough of a hassle for calling in fatigued that most pilots just called in sick. - The problem with this approach is that it obscured too many potential data points that could have furthered the understanding of fatigue and its causes. - Airlines were required to train pilots on fatigue, its causes, and appropriate remedies. The term “strategic use of caffeine” was one that I always felt was insulting. I don’t drink coffee, and I drink caffeinated soda only a handful of times a year. Telling us to avoid caffeine while also telling us to use it strategically sounded to me like the ultimate “wink-wink” scenario: Fatigue is for the weak, so do what you must to complete the mission.

While we all knew that fatigue existed, it was often either ignored, or was simply not discussed. Fortunately, science and common sense have made progress. Unfortunately, that progress has been stained with blood, as several accidents have driven home the importance of understanding fatigue. Colgan Air Flight 3407 is the best-known example, but not the only one."  Read More from the AOPA article Here.

03/16/2025   Industry Attitudes About Pilot Mental Wellness May Be Shifting - From Business Aviation Advisor - "The aviation community, including the FAA, has been showing signs of progress regarding pilots who are seeking support and treatment for mental health issues. - Industry recommendations addressing mental wellness concerns among pilots, and revised FAA guidance to aviation medical examiners (AMEs), mark progress toward not only the proper treatment of mental health, but also greater understanding of these issues across the industry, including in business aviation.

The Mental Health & Aviation Medical Clearances Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) published a comprehensive list of recommendations to the FAA last year addressing concerns about mental health from across the aviation community. - Formed in late 2023, the ARC was tasked with five primary responsibilities. Topping that list was identifying factors that discourage those in the aviation industry from disclosing mental health concerns, including stigmatization and fear over the potential loss of a pilot’s medical certification. - “One key recommendation was..."  Continue reading about Pilot Wellness Here.

Epilepsy is derived from Greek epilambanein, meaning to seize or attack because the person involved may be overwhelmed when it happens. Seizures occur when there are brief episodes of abnormal electrical activity generalized across the entire brain or very focal. If the latter, the symptoms experienced are predictable based on which part of the brain is firing randomly. They can result from many causes, including bacterial, viral, or other infectious diseases causing swelling of the brain or its surrounding membranes, the meninges (hence meningitis) and high fevers from other infections, especially in children.

Trauma can also induce..."    Continue Reading Jonathan Sackler's article Here.

03/10/2025   Best Of The Web: Pilot Wages Public Fight To Get Her Medical Back -  VIDEO - "Xyla Foxlin had her medical pulled for a common condition related to her choice of birth control. She’s fighting it. - When Xyla Foxlin visited her gynecologist for the routine replacement of her IUD it set off a chain of events that ultimately led to her being found medically unfit to continue flying her beloved Cessna 140. She's harnessing her considerable talent as a social media influencer and YouTuber to draw attention to the plight of thousands of pilots with treatable or even curable mental health issues who dare not be honest about their conditions for fear that what's happened to her might happen to them. She's part of a group trying to get Congress to support the Mental Health In Aviation Act."  Continue Here.

03/04/2025   FAA Paperwork Medical Denials Delayed ‘Indefinitely’ - "Policy would have turned medical deferrals into denials if paperwork wasn’t complete.- Sources have told AVweb that a controversial FAA policy to turn incompletely documented medical deferrals into denials has been indefinitely deferred. The policy was supposed to have come into effect on Jan.1, but opposition from a broad base of GA groups prompted a deferral until March 1. The indefinite delay was communicated to AMEs on Monday. - The policy would have seen anyone whose medical was deferred by..." Continue Here.

02/05/2025   It's Not All Honey - "Dr. Kenneth Stahl explores the negative--and surprisingly positive--effects of bee stings. - A while back I spent half the day detailing my airplane. I got a thousand dead bugs off the windscreen and leading edges and opened all the doors to give the inside a real thorough cleaning and airing out. As a reward for all my labors, I flew off over the Everglades to practice some maneuversand cover the wings with another coat of dead bugs." Full Story: AOPA Online 

02/01/2025   Pilot Minute: What is the FAA Researching in Human Factors? - In this new episode of the Pilot Minute video series, Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup provides examples of spatial disorientation and how the FAA is partnering with institutes and institutions to investigate causal factors and how to prevent them. To watch this and other videos, visit bit.ly/FAAPilotMinute.

Also read the Safety Briefing’s “It’s a Confusing World Up There” (medium.com/faa/its-a-confusing-world-up-there-5070c1e5806b) and “Your Senses in the Shadows” (faasteam.medium.com/your-senses-in-the-shadows-5ed018e015b5) for additional information on spatial disorientation and visual illusions.

01/21/2025   The Three “E” Approach — Educate, Early Intervention, and the Evolution of Standards - FAA Safety Briefing Magazine - By Dr. Susan Northrup, FAA Federal Air Surgeon - "I would like to take the opportunity to outline our 2025 goals in the FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine. Some are concrete and easily measurable; others are aspirational but just as important. Recall from the previous issue that we are concerned about both sudden and subtle incapacitation; we must not only consider you the pilot, but society at large. When we can assure ourselves that the risk is acceptable, then we can issue a medical certificate. My goals include:

  • In support of the Air Traffic Organization’s air traffic control specialist (ATCS) hiring goal to reduce the shortage, medically certificate at least 2,500 ATCS applicants for the FAA Academy. (This is almost double what we cleared just a few years ago.)
  • Fill 95% of all medical officer vacancies to reduce the amount of time necessary to medically certify ATCS candidates and pilot applicants. (Not only have we seen an increase in ATCS applications, but the number of pilot applicants and the complexity of their medical histories have also increased dramatically. We are also seeking to increase the number of aviation medical examiners (AMEs) available for pilot medical certification.)
  • Increase the number of behavioral health specialists on...     Continue Here.
1/07/2025    AME Minute - Microlearning for Aviation Medical Examiners - In this microlearning lesson, Dr. Warren Silberman, DO, MPH demonstrates the biologics page and discusses pharmaceutical considerations for biologics including post dose wait times, and use of non-biologics and biosimilars. Recommended documentation in Item 60 is also covered. (Running time: 1:05)
AME Minute - Biologics

The AME Minute is presented by FAA Aviation Safety's Aerospace Medical Education Division of the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, in association with FAA Media Solutions.

12/16/2024   New Medical Denials Raise Concerns - From AVweb -"The FAA says a new policy on medical deferrals and denials isn’t necessarily permanently disqualifying for Sport Pilot and BasicMed privileges. - The FAA says those who have their medicals denied under a new deferral processing policy will not necessarily be disqualified from obtaining medical certification through BasicMed. Effective Jan.1, anyone whose medical deferral is not accompanied by all the necessary paperwork and reports will have their medical denied. A medical denial makes a pilot ineligible for BasicMed and Sport Pilot. But under the new policy, affected pilots will be able to apply for reconsideration of the denial and if that's approved they will again be eligible for BasicMed and Sport Pilot. Here's the FAA's statement:"  Read More Here.

12/11/2024   OK, So Now What? - Part one - From AOPA -  "It seems that I stirred up a little bit of a hornets nest with the post last month and all those dire statistics. Much of the feedback I got agreed with my reaction of finding those statpretty shockingbut then the trend was, I watch what I eat, but Im still overweight, whats up with that?” - "The other responses were, “Yeah, that’s pretty bad, OK, so now what?” These issues of diet, obesity, and processed foods causing health problems are hugely complex. To get to the answers, let’s do what we pilots naturally do and pull back on the stick, gain some altitude, and look at the big picture. This month I’ll talk about genetic and metabolic factors that lead to obesity and next month we’ll tackle how it can be managed, in addition to the dietary changes I’ve already stressed. 

There’s ample data that supports the principles detailed last month that a significant proportion of the country’s obesity problem is related to choices with diets and lifestyle. Since human genetics haven’t changed and the rate of obesity in America has nearly tripled since the 1960s (70% of our population is now overweight), a lot of this has to be related to environmental factors and life choices. Still, it’s way too simplistic to just write off obesity like a math equation, “take in more calories than you burn and you store all the extra as fat.” To get an idea of just how complex this subject is, click on the National Library of Medicine site, affectionately known as “PubMed“ in the medical world, and type “obesity” in the search bar. You’ll get 48,879 links to recent peer-reviewed medical publications on the topic."  Continue Reading Here.

12/06/2024   Microlearning for Aviation Medical Examiners - FAA - AME MOMENT VIDEO - In this microlearning lesson, Dr. Warren Silberman, DO, MPH explains how requirements for testing the Aviation English Language Standard (AESL) differ from medical certification requirements and the importance of obtaining a complete medical history. (Running time: 1:19)  -  View the presentation Here.

12/06/2024   Federal Air Surgeon's Bulletin -

11/27/2024    How Business Aviation Pilots Are Staying Safe and Alert - "Piloting aircraft for long periods of time not only reduces concentration and reaction time – it can contribute to deadly accidents. If your business aviation operation doesn’t have a fatigue mitigation program, maybe it should. - Long-range aviation has leaped lightyears ahead in the century since “Lucky Lindy” completed his 33-hour solo slog from New York to Paris. With their super-efficient engines, GPS-based navigation and satellite-based connectivity, today’s ultra-long-range business jets can easily leapfrog the globe. - However, those aircraft capabilities still have to accommodate crew member flight fatigue. Sitting for hours, even in the most comfortable seat, can take a considerable toll on a pilot’s alertness. So why don’t flight departments pay more attention to the dangers of fatigue? - “The majority of long-distance business aviation flights aren’t..."   Finish Reading Here.

11/27/2024   AIr Sickness: A Pilots Guide to AI-Powered Health -  "On August 4, 1997, the United States Congress passed a funding billa mere 25 days later the implications of that act became apparent, and those in power realized they had made a dreadful mistake havinginitiated an existential disaster for humanity. - The referenced legislation was, of course, to empower Skynet to manage the North American Aerospace Defense Command, removing humans from decision-making. Skynet became self-aware and, recognizing humans were the single biggest threat to humans, launched a preemptive nuclear strike on Russia leading to global devastation.

For those not familiar, the above scenario was the basis for the Terminator series of movies and inspired widespread fear of artificial intelligence, AI. As computing became more widespread there were always those to present the downside or prophesize doom, from the now-famous IBM president who in 1943 said, “I think there is a world..."   Read the treatise Here.

11/15/2024   BasicMed expansion - Federal law recognizes the safety of the program by and for GA pilots - From AOPA - "The expansion of BasicMed privileges included in the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 is now in full effect as of November 12. - Under the new law signed May 16, pilots may now use BasicMed privileges to fly aircraft weighing up to 12,500 pounds and certified to carry up to seven occupants. The previous aircraft weight limitation was 6,000 pounds, with certification for up to six occupants. - Full Story Here.

11/07/2024    AME Minute: Why did the FAA develop a new CACI for Low T? - VIDEO -  In this microlearning lesson, Dr. Warren Silberman, DO, MPH lists medications for hypogonadism which are now accepted for medical issuance under the CACI program and the required criteria and documentation. - Watch Here

10/26/2024   Federal Air Surgeon Addresses Mental Health Progress, Deferral Delays - "Federal Flight Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup, center, gave an update on mental health initiatives at the FAA. - Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup says a pilot medical Bill of Rights is under development, a shorter time lag for pilots to regain their privileges after a medication change is on the way and sometime in the future there will be a "period of non-enforcement" to allow those with undeclared history or challenges with mental health to get the help they need without fear of sanctions. During a Q and A at the National Safety Forum at NBAA-BACE in Las Vegas on Wednesday, she also said the backlog delay of medical deferral decisions has been reduced from a year to less than three months and will be reduced further. She's also hoping that those awaiting their deferrals will soon be able to accurately track their progress accurately online in real time.

Northrup was in Las Vegas to specifically address mental health issues in aviation, notably the well-known practice of lying about mental health problems to avoid deferrals and..."   Full Story Here.

10/09/2024   We're Not Aging Well - From AOPA - "A lot of people, including Colin Powell who made the phrase popular, have observed that bad news isn’t like good wine – it doesn’t get better with age.  Unfortunately, the same can be said for progressive generations of young Americans whose bad news is that over the decades they aren’t aging well either. - While doing some background reading for the last few articles on health, diet, and energy drinks, I kept coming across more and more information on just how unhealthy weve become in this country. I mentioned last month that processed foods were leading to earlier and more deadly colon cancer in young people (<50 years olddue to poisoning and premature aging (senescence) of the cells lining the GI tract that render them unable to fight off tumor formation. Increasing cancer rates in younger generations is not unique to just GI cancer; it turns out that every generation of Americans has a progressively higher rate of lots of different types ocancer than the preceding generation. An article published just this month in The Lancet with..."  Read the whole article Here.

10/01/2024  FAA Reduces Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccine Pilot Wait Time - "The agency's updated Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners says the wait time has been cut from 48 hours to 24 hours, provided the pilot doesn't show symptoms after 24 hours."  More Here.

09/18/2024   VIDEO:  Leukemia and Lymphoma   -  Can I get a medical certificate if I have a history of leukemia or lymphoma? - In this recent episode of the Pilot Minute video series, Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrop describes how AMEs can issue a medical certificate for these conditions and how pilots can expedite the process. - Pilot Minute Video  Here.

09/06/2024   VIDEO:  Why should I be concerned about herbal remedies? - In this episode of the Pilot Minute, Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup lists the herbal remedies and supplements that are not acceptable for medical certification, including specific concerns for aviation safety. - See the Video Here.

09/06/2024   AME Minute - FAA - Microlearning for Aviation Medical Examiners -  In this microlearning lesson, Dr. Warren Silberman, DO, MPH explains how distinguishing head injuries from brain injuries reduces deferrals to the FAA, and allows AMEs to issue medical certificates under a new option.  (Running time: 1:22) - The AME Minute is presented by FAA Aviation Safety's Aerospace Medical Education Division of the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, in association with FAA Media Solutions. Watch Video Here. - To provide feedback, please email ame-distance-training@faa.gov

08/11/2024  Be careful what you put in your tank - FROM AOPA - "Energy drinks can deliver a boost, but it is important to be aware of their possible side effects." Continue

08/10/2024  Latest Pilot Minute Video Covers Herbal Remedies - FAA - VIDEO - Pilots may wonder, “Why should I be concerned about herbal remedies?” Not all organic substances are safe and some can have similar effects to those of illicit drugs. In the latest episode of the Pilot Minute video series, Federal Air surgeon Dr. Susan Northrop explains the herbal remedies and supplements that are not acceptable for medical certification including specific concerns for aviation safety. Go to youtube.com/watch?v=u1-FIcnqDms&list=PL5vHkqHi51DQvRjGJo1SuXyZpKl5HbzOI to watch this and other Pilot Minute videos.

07/15/2024   From NBAA - The FAA recently issued new guidelines indicating that the agency is changing its criteria for evaluating pilots’ mental wellness, giving medical examiners greater autonomy in evaluations. Listen as a panel of mental-wellness experts takes listeners behind the headlines to discuss ways the changes might impact aviators’ readiness for flight. - In this episode of NBAA’s “Flight Plan,” host Rob Finfrock speaks with:

* Dr. Clayton Cowl, chief of the section of transportation medicine for Mayo Clinic
* Mark Larsen, CAM, NBAA director of safety and flight operations
* Matthew McNeil, president, clinical director and director of human performance at LiftAffect
               Listen to the Podcast HERE.

07/13/2024  Latest Pilot Minute Video Covers Weight Loss Medications - Pilots may wonder, “Can I take a weight loss drug and still fly?” The FAA allows multiple medications for weight loss, including some available over the counter and some categories of prescription diabetic drugs. In the latest episode of the Pilot Minute video series, Federal Air surgeon Dr. Susan Northrop explains how weight loss medication can be approved by your AME. If you have concerns about weight management, talk to your AME and visit the links in the video description. Go to bit.ly/FAAPilotMinute to watch this and other Pilot Minute videos.

07/09/2024   Microlearning for Aviation Medical Examiners - VIDEO - FAA - In this microlearning lesson, Dr. Warren Silberman, DO, MPH answers a question posed during a recent Grand Rounds session regarding online access to most recent and historical medical certification policy updates. (Running time: 57 seconds) - View it Here.  - The AME Minute is presented by FAA Aviation Safety's Aerospace Medical Education Division of the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute, in association with FAA Media Solutions.

6/30/2024   Aeromedical Summit, an ARC, and Grand Rounds - By Susan Northrup, MD, MPH - Federal Air Surgeon - Welcome to the June 2024 Federal Air Surgeon’s Medical Bulletin! A LOT has happened in the last six months. My thanks to each of you for taking this journey with us as we update the medical standards and IT infrastructure. I appreciate your patience as we introduced double authentication for AMEs accessing our medical subsystems. For most people, it was seamless, but not for all. You can expect further enhancements and improvements in our system moving forward.

The Mental Health and Medical Clearance Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC). In December 2023, the FAA Administrator announced the formation of the ARC to evaluate the barriers to pilots seeking mental health support and treatment and reporting it to the FAA. The ARC was made up of people from industry, academia, pilot advocacy groups, unions, peer support organizations, flight training organizations, and aerospace medicine mental health experts. Observers and subject matter experts included international partners, representatives from the NTSB and FAA, and other interested parties. In less than four months from inception, the ARC produced a report discussing the barriers and providing 24 recommendations. The Office of Aerospace Medicine did not wait for the final report to begin implementing new ideas and accelerating efforts already in progress. As a result, we approved three new medications (SNRIs) in April and updated mental health policy in May to allow AMEs to issue Certificates to more pilots and air traffic controllers who meet certain criteria. For more information see Item 47. Psychiatric Conditions in the AME Guide.

To that end, we continue to encourage everyone to help spread mental health awareness to the entire aviation community. Our efforts have three main themes. I call them the 3-Es.

  1. Educate all people in the aviation community to reduce stigma and fear regarding FAA processes and policy.
  2. Early Intervention is key through education, peer support networks, outreach, and if required treatment.
  3. Evolve medical standards as new science develops.

One of the outcomes from both our Aeromedical Certification Summit and the ARC was a recommendation to provide AMEs more frequent training and education, particularly when we make major changes in policy. In May, we stood up Grand Rounds -- notifications were sent out through AMCS and emails. Approximately 20% of the AMEs attended. The feedback was uniformly positive. And, we provided one hour of CME. Please understand, these sessions are not to discuss specific cases. The design is to provide current policy updates or items generating a lot of interest or questions. We will accept recommendations for future topics.

The Grand Rounds will be scheduled the last week of each month. Information and the virtual meeting link will be send to AMEs via email. - Finally, thank you for all you do to keep the National Air Space safe.  - Susan

06/30/2024  - Medical Certification Policy Updates - By Judith Frazier, MD, MBA - The Policy and Standards branch continues to focus on helping Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) more easily obtain the information needed to make a medical certification decision. This version highlights policy changes and updates published between November 2023 and May 2024. The full list of changes is hyperlinked in the Archives and Updates section of the AME Guide.

Psychiatry/Behavioral Health - Anxiety, Depression and Related Conditions – introduced new disposition table and a new Decision Tool for the AME. Using this tool, AMEs may be able to issue a combination of up to two (2) behavioral health diagnoses when uncomplicated, treated with a single medication 2 years ago or longer.

If currently in psychotherapy and no medication, may also be issued using the Decision Tool.  Remember to put the specific wording from the dispo table in Block 60 so we know you used the Decision Tool!

Expanded acceptable antidepressant medications (previous known as the SSRI protocol) to include EIGHT (8) medications of various classes (SSRI, SNRI, and NDRI).

 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)  – revised the disposition table to allow ongoing psychotherapy. - Need to reach an FAA psychiatrist with a question? Use the new Branch email 9-AVS-Psychiatry-Branch@faa.gov.

Cardiac

Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) – Expanded disposition table added listing out initial certification requirements by class.  Corresponding Protocol page added.

Recertification. Simplified the AASI for CHD requirements for recertification for all classes by removing the annual stress test. If currently on an AASI for CHD/CAD, the RECERTIFICATION evaluation data is based on control of risk factors. Have the treating cardiologist complete the Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)/ Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Recertification Status Summary.  Please let your pilots know about this new change as we started to update their authorization letters!

If risk factors are not controlled, a stress test may be required.  If currently on a SI, the CHD/CAD Recertification Status Summary should also be submitted to expedite recertification along with any stress testing requested per the authorization letter.

Atrial Fibrillation (A-Fib)/A-Flutter   Simplified Status Summary to use for both Initial and Recertification. Rember to send in the clinic notes showing how the A-Fib/Flutter was diagnosed for INITIAL certification consideration.

Chest Pain/Angina – New disposition table.

ECG/EKG – Clarified a full 12-lead ECG is required.  (1,2, or 6 leads are not acceptable). Must be 25mm/sec at 10 mV.

Hemoglobin A1c replaces a fasting blood sugar on multiple cardiac pages and protocols.

Pacemaker – Status Summary expands recertification based on Estimated Replacement Interval.  Pilots can be issued an annual SI until the month prior to the ERI expiration which is typically 3-4 month of battery life remaining.

Valve repair  and  Valve replacement – simplified. Removed requirements for stress testing for all classes.

Otolaryngology (ENT)

ENT – Section updated. Expanded and updated disposition tables for both Middle Ear and Outer Ear.

Cochlear implant – new disposition table.

Vertigo – New or expanded disposition tables for vertigo conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)Labyrinthitis (Vestibular Neuritis, Viral labyrinthitis, Epidemic Vertigo, Acute Vestibulopathy)Meniere’s DiseasePerilymph Fistula (PLF)Persistent postural Perceptual Dizziness (PPPD or 3PD) and Superior Semicircular Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SSCDS).

Other Systems/Miscellaneous

GI – Cholelithiasis.  Updated disposition table.

Medical Certificate Limitations  –  Added reference to limitations by system.

Neurology – Syncope. Expanded disposition table. New Chiari Malformation Disposition Table. Added caffeine use to social history the FAA Specifications for Neurologic Evaluation.

Ophthalmology –  Lattice Degeneration. New disposition table.

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceuticals – Weight Loss Management Medications added as CACI. New Weight Loss Management Status Report (to use with CACI or SI).  Clarified Loperamide should not be used for acute illness.

Help us improve the AME guide! Send you comments or suggestions to: AMEGuide@FAA.gov. (This mailbox does not answer case questions.)

  • Dr. Frazier is the Manager of the Policy and Standards Branch in the Office of Aerospace Medicine.

6/28/2024    Drug Abatement Program's Latest News - FAA - The Department of Transportation (DOT) published three notices in the Federal Register on June 21, 2024 that pertain to its final rule that authorized employers to use oral fluid drug testing as an alternative testing methodology to urine drug testing. For more information and a link to the DOT’s notices, please visit https://www.transportation.gov/odapc/frpubs. If you have any questions, you may contact the DOT’s Office of Drug and Alcohol Policy and Compliance at 202-366-3784 or ODAPCWebMail@dot.gov.

Remember to visit the FAA’s website at www.faa.gov/go/drugabatement often for updated resources, new or updated FAQs and Q&As, a copy of our latest inspection guide, and other useful materials. Webmaster: Please be aware that at times links to FAA.gov pages sunset and are updated to different locations. Should that become the case, please inform the webmaster at contactus@scauwg.org Thank You!

06/28/2024   FAA Removes Check Pilot Medical Requirement - Rule also eliminates FAA regulatory inconsistencies - The FAA has finalized the substantive relief proposed five years ago that removes a requirement for check pilots, check flight engineers, and flight instructors to Part 135 and 121 operations to hold an FAA medical certificate when performing in-flight duties. This move also eliminates Part 135 and 121 regulatory inconsistencies.

“Removing the conflicting medical certificate requirement enables the utilization of pilots who are otherwise qualified to function as check pilots, check flight engineers, and flight instructors in aircraft,” according to the agency. This relief “would increase the number of experienced pilots who would be able to qualify as Part 135 check pilots on aircraft.” Similar clarifying changes were also made to Part 121.  More Here.

06/28/2024   New Pilot Minute Video: How Being Hot and Thirsty Can Affect Flying - In the latest episode of the FAA’s Pilot Minute video series, Federal Air Surgeon Dr. Susan Northrup explains the physiological impacts of dehydration on flying and suggestions for mitigation. See this and past Pilot Minute videos here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5vHkqHi51DQvRjGJo1SuXyZpKl5HbzOI.

06/27/2024   Microlearning for Aviation Medical Examiners - VIDEO - In this microlearning lesson, Dr. Warren Silberman, DO, MPH explains the importance of reviewing ECG lead placements for common errors before uploading to the FAA. (Running time: 1:20)  View The Video Here

 

 

The original AMEPilot Data is found here:

Welcome to AMEPilot, a new feature of SCAUWG.ORG presented by Aviation Medical Examiner - Gregory J. Hanker, M.D. – Dr. Hanker is an orthopedic surgeon practicing at the Southern California Orthopedic Institute in Van Nuys.

AMEPilot logo first edition spring 2019

Dr. Hanker’s primary goal as an Aviation Medical Examiner and the author of AMEPilot is to assist the local aviation community in obtaining their medical certification, especially complex cases where FAA special authorization may be necessary.
AMEPilot is a quarterly authored contribution written exclusively for SCAUWG.ORG.

The FIRST EDITION - SPRING - addresses the behind the scenes, rarely known items about how to prepare for and what YOU CAN DO to make your Medical proceed easy and fast!  Underlying medical issues can be addressed successfully.  When properly prepared and with the proper documentation, only a very small percentage of applications for a medical certificate are denied.  Dr. Hanker details how you can mobilize your application for success within the best possible timeframe.  The editions that follow continue to provide you with the important data that will help you facilitate your medical application as well as stay in the best possible health and professionally prepare for safe flight.

 

  • NEWSWORTHY NOTE From AOPA:  03/29/2021   AME GUIDANCE RELEASED FOR PILOTS WHO HAVE HAD COVID-19 - INFORMATION - From AOPA - "The FAA on March 26 released much-anticipated guidance to aviation medical examiners about how to handle medical certificate applications from pilots and air traffic control specialists who have had confirmed cases of COVID-19." Review it HERE.

 

Make your selection here:  

EXTRA Feature WINTER Dec. 2023  - AOPA- HERE

AMEPilot 2023 SPRING CLICK HERE

AMEPilot 2022 SUMMER  CLICK HERE

AMEPilot WINTER 2022 CLICK HERE

AMEPilot 2021 MAY  CLICK HERE

AMEPilot 2020 FALL WINTER  CLICK HERE

AMEPilot  2020  SPRING SUMMER   CLICK HERE

AMEPilot  2020  WINTER EDITION  CLICK HERE

AMEPilot  2019  FALL EDITION   CLICK HERE

AMEPilot  2019  SUMMER  EDITION   CLICK HERE

AMEPilot  2019  SPRING EDITION   CLICK HERE

 

Dr. Gregory J Hanker M.D., AME author of AMEPilot

Aviation Medical Examiner Gregory J. Hanker, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon practicing at the Southern California Orthopedic Institute in Van Nuys. Tel.  (818) 901-6600

Dr. Hanker is a former USAF transport pilot who flew the C-9A Nightingale on aero- medical evacuation missions in Europe; an Ohio USAF Reservist flying the C-123 Provider while attending medical school;
and currently a general aviation pilot flying out of Van Nuys Airport.

Dr. Hanker’s primary goal as an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) is to assist the local aviation community in obtaining their medical certification, especially complex cases where FAA special authorization may be necessary.