Understanding FAA Special Issuance Follow-Up Exams (AASI)
What is AASI?
The AME Assisted Special Issuance (AASI) is an FAA pathway that allows a designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) to issue your medical certificate—without sending your case back to the FAA—as long as you meet specific criteria.
When does AASI apply?
AASI only applies after the FAA has already granted you a Special Issuance Authorization. Your authorization letter outlines exactly what must be reviewed at each follow-up exam.
What this means for you
If your documentation meets FAA requirements:
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✔ Same-day medical certificate issuance (in most cases)
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✔ No FAA resubmission required
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✔ Clear guidance to avoid delays or deferrals
Why this matters
Many pilots experience delays because documentation is incomplete or incorrectly submitted. At Seattle Aviation Medical, we focus on FAA-compliant documentation and efficient AASI exams, helping you maintain your certification without disruption.
Who Qualifies for AME Assisted Special Issuance (AASI)?
AASI exams are designed for pilots who have already been granted a Special Issuance Authorization by the FAA and require ongoing follow-up exams to maintain their medical certification.
If you meet FAA criteria and bring the correct documentation, your certificate can often be issued the same day.
Existing FAA Special Issuance
The AASI FAA protocol is specifically for pilots who have already been granted a Special Issuance letter. This authorization allows the AME to issue a medical certificate directly if follow-up criteria are met.
FAA Documentation Requirements
Compliance is critical for specialized medical certification. Pilots must bring all current medical reports, clinical summaries, and diagnostic test results exactly as mandated by the FAA. Seattle Aviation Medical ensures your documentation meets every technical requirement to avoid deferrals.
Common Conditions Managed Under the AASI Program
Some FAA medical conditions may qualify for AME Assisted Special Issuance (AASI) follow-up if you already have an FAA Special Issuance Authorization and bring the required documentation.
🩺 Hypertension
Ongoing monitoring for pilots with previously authorized high blood pressure.
Hypothyroidism
Stable, treated thyroid conditions with routine follow-up
❤️ Cardiac Conditions
Selected FAA-authorized heart conditions requiring interval review.
🌙 Obstructive Sleep Apnea
FAA-compliant treatment with documented effectiveness and follow-up
🧠 Depression/Anxiety
FAA-approved cases on qualifying medications with required documentation
🧠 ADHD History
Only when specifically addressed in the FAA authorization and supporting records are provided.
Other FAA-Authorized Conditions
Additional FAA-authorized conditions may qualify based on your FAA Special Issuance letter
AASI eligibility is determined by your FAA Special Issuance authorization letter, your medical history, and whether all required documentation is provided at the time of your exam.
Evaluations are performed in accordance with current FAA AASI protocols and certification guidelines.
View the full FAA list of AASI-eligible conditions →
https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide/special_iss/all_classes
Important AASI Exam Requirements (Read Before Booking)
AASI Eligibility
AASI exams are strictly for pilots with an active FAA Special Issuance Authorization that specifically allows AME-assisted issuance.
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You must have a current FAA authorization letter
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Your condition must already be approved for AASI follow-up
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New conditions or expired authorizations require FAA review
Documentation Requirements
FAA AASI exams require complete and exact documentation.
You must bring:
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All required medical reports and physician summaries
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Current diagnostic test results
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Any documentation specifically listed in your FAA authorization letter
If documentation is incomplete or does not meet FAA criteria, your exam must be deferred to the FAA, which can significantly delay certification.
How to Avoid Delays
The most common reason for delays is missing or incorrect documentation.
At Seattle Aviation Medical, we focus on:
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Reviewing FAA requirements carefully
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Ensuring documentation meets exact standards
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Helping you avoid unnecessary deferrals
AASI FAA Special Issuance Exams
Fast, physician-led FAA follow-up exams for pilots with Special Issuance Authorization
✔ Same-day certification (when eligible)
✔ No delays or unnecessary deferrals
FAA AASI Exams in Seattle | AME Assisted Special Issuance | FAA Special Issuance Follow-Up