FAA Medical Disqualifying Conditions
Some medical conditions require additional FAA review before a pilot can be issued an FAA medical certificate. In certain situations, the FAA may require a Special Issuance authorization and additional documentation from your treating physician.
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Understanding common FAA medical disqualifying conditions can help pilots avoid unexpected delays or a potential FAA medical denial.
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Whether you are preparing for your next FAA medical exam, applying for a Special Issuance, or considering BasicMed, our Aviation Medical Examiner services can guide you through the process and help keep you flying safely and legally.
Psychosis
Substance Dependence
Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)
Heart Valve Replacement
FAA Medical Conditions That Require Special Issuance
Even with these conditions, an FAA Special Issuance medical certificate may still be possible after careful FAA review. Consulting with an experienced Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) before submitting your MedXPress application can help avoid delays or denials.
Certain medical conditions are considered FAA medical disqualifying conditions under 14 CFR §67.113, §67.213, and §67.313. Pilots with these conditions cannot be issued a medical certificate unless the FAA grants a Special Issuance Authorization.
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However, many pilots with these conditions are still able to obtain certification with proper documentation and evaluation during their aviation medical exam.
Bipolar Disorder
Epilepsy
Angina Pectoris
Permanent Cardiac Pacemaker
Severe Personality Disorder
Unexplained Loss of Consciousness
Coronary Heart Disease (Treated or Symptomatic)
Heart or Major Organ Transplant
Common Medical Conditions That May Require FAA Review
Many common medical conditions do not automatically result in an FAA medical denial. Instead, the FAA may require additional documentation, testing, or specialist evaluation before issuing a medical certificate.
Understanding these FAA medical review conditions and preparing the appropriate records ahead of time can significantly speed up the aviation medical certification process.
Examples of Conditions That Often Need Extra Review
ADHD or history of stimulant medications
Depression or anxiety treated with medication
Sleep apnea
Diabetes requiring medication
Cardiac arrhythmias
History of stroke or TIA
Neurologic disorders (such as seizure disorders or multiple sclerosis)
Substance use disorder or prior substance dependence
Many pilots are ultimately able to obtain certification after FAA review of their medical records, testing, and AME documentation. Speaking with an Aviation Medical Examiner before submitting your MedXPress application can help avoid delays and improve the likelihood of certification.
Use of antidepressant medications (SSRI pathway)
BasicMed vs FAA Medical Certificate
Deciding between BasicMed and a traditional FAA medical certificate depends on your aircraft, flying privileges, and medical history. Some pilots may qualify to fly under BasicMed, while others require a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 FAA medical certificate. Understanding the differences can help pilots avoid delays or a potential FAA medical denial.
Still unsure which path fits your situation? Our Aviation Medical Examiner Services are designed to provide clarity. Ask your physician which option best fits your medical profile during your next AME medical exam or when discussing an FAA special issuance medical.
When Traditional FAA Medical Is Required
• Airline transport pilot operations requiring a Class 1 medical certificate
• Commercial operations requiring a Class 2 medical certificate
• Operating aircraft with a maximum certificated takeoff weight greater than 12,500 pounds
• Flying above 18,000 ft MSL or faster than 250 knots
• Flying outside the United States where BasicMed is not accepted
When BasicMed May Be an Option
• Personal or recreational flying in aircraft certified for no more than 7 occupants
• Carrying up to 6 passengers (7 occupants including the pilot)
• Aircraft with maximum certificated takeoff weight of 12,500 pounds or less
• Flying at or below 18,000 ft MSL and ≤250 knots indicated airspeed
• Pilots who previously held an FAA medical certificate after July 14, 2006 that was not suspended, revoked, or denied
How an Aviation Medical Examiner Can Help
If you have a complex medical history, speaking with an Aviation Medical Examiner before submitting your MedXPress application can be a critical step. Early planning helps pilots understand potential FAA medical disqualifying conditions and navigate the certification process while avoiding unnecessary delays or a possible FAA medical denial.
- Reviewing your medical history before your next aviation medical exam.
- Helping you gather the medical documentation the FAA typically requires from your treating physicians.
- Explaining FAA certification requirements for your specific medical condition.​
- Planning the timing of your application so you don't lose flying privileges.
Learn more about our Aviation Medical Examiner Services or schedule a consultation to discuss your aviation medical certification options.
Schedule an Aviation Medical Consultation or Exam
Take the first step toward your aviation medical certification with clarity and confidence. Navigating FAA medical disqualifying conditions or managing a potential FAA medical denial can be challenging.
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Scheduling a consultation before your next AME medical exam allows you to review your medical history, plan for a possible FAA Special Issuance, or determine whether BasicMed may be an option. Our goal is to help you find a safe and legally compliant path back to the cockpit.
FAA Medical Exams
BasicMed Exams
Aviation Medical Consultation Services