An Aviator's Field Guide to FAA Medical Certification
A pilot’s ability to obtain and keep a current medical certificate can have significant career and lifestyle implications. FAA medical certification is not solely a clinical determination—it is a regulatory and legal process. An Aviator’s Field Guide to FAA Medical Certification explains how the Federal Aviation Administration evaluates applications for airman medical certificates under 14 CFR Part 67 and why a favorable clinical assessment by a personal physician does not always result in medical certification. Written by a team with extensive aviation, legal, and medical experience, this guide walks airmen through MedXPress, the Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) examination, deferrals, Conditions AMEs Can Issue (CACI), Special Issuance Authorizations, denials, appeals, BasicMed, and more.
Designed for student pilots who are new to FAA medical certification as well as experienced aviators who have more to lose if there are unexpected issues, this book provides a clear, practical understanding of the process. Using the guidance contained here will help you properly prepare before applying, avoid common pitfalls, reduce the risk of a denial or deferral, and make well-informed decisions to protect your eligibility to fly.