FAA CACI Conditions: What Pilots Need to Know
Many pilots with certain medical conditions can still receive same-day FAA medical certification through the FAA’s CACI (Conditions AMEs Can Issue) program — if the correct documentation is provided.
What does CACI mean?
CACI stands for Conditions AMEs Can Issue. It is an FAA program that allows Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) to issue a medical certificate at the time of the exam for certain common and stable medical conditions.
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If a pilot meets the FAA’s specific criteria and brings the required documentation, the AME can issue the medical certificate without needing prior FAA authorization.
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This process helps pilots avoid long FAA review delays and allows many applicants to receive same-day certification when they arrive prepared.
Common CACI Conditions Explained
CACI stands for Conditions AMEs Can Issue. The FAA allows Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) to issue a medical certificate at the time of the exam for certain stable and well-controlled medical conditions when the pilot meets FAA criteria and provides the required documentation.
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This program helps many pilots avoid delays and receive their FAA medical certificate during the same appointment when they arrive prepared.
Examples of CACI Conditions
Examples of medical conditions that may qualify under the FAA CACI program include high blood pressure (hypertension), asthma, migraines, hypothyroidism, kidney stones, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, and certain cases of depression or anxiety when stable and properly treated.
Because FAA medical guidance can change, pilots should confirm current requirements and bring appropriate documentation to their appointment.
Bring the Right Documentation
Pilots should bring recent medical records, a current medication list, and any required physician notes or test results related to their condition. Having the correct documentation allows the Aviation Medical Examiner to determine eligibility under the FAA CACI criteria.
Same-Day Certification May Be Possible
When FAA CACI criteria are met and documentation is complete, the Aviation Medical Examiner may be able to issue the FAA medical certificate during the appointment without sending the case to the FAA for review, allowing many pilots to receive same-day certification.
Impact on Certification
What Should Pilots Do If They Have a CACI Condition?
Preparation is key to a smooth FAA medical exam. Pilots with a medical condition that may qualify under the Conditions AMEs Can Issue (CACI) program should arrive prepared with the proper documentation. Following these steps can help your Aviation Medical Examiner determine whether same-day FAA medical certification is possible.
Review the FAA AME Guide CACI criteria for your medical condition or contact Seattle Aviation Medical to determine whether your condition may qualify under the Conditions AMEs Can Issue (CACI) pathway.
3. Prepare Clinical Notes
Obtain a recent physician progress note, specialist evaluation if applicable, relevant test results, and a current medication list. These documents help the Aviation Medical Examiner confirm that your condition meets FAA CACI criteria.
5. Exam Readiness
Bring all documentation to your FAA medical exam so the Aviation Medical Examiner can determine whether same-day certification is possible. Having complete records helps avoid unnecessary delays and reduces the likelihood of your application being deferred to the FAA.
Identify your exact medical condition and determine what documentation the FAA requires. Each CACI condition has specific status report and evaluation requirements listed in the FAA AME Guide.
4. MedXPress Accuracy
Complete your MedXPress FAA medical application carefully and accurately before your appointment. Ensure your medical history, medications, and physician visits are reported correctly.
How Seattle Aviation Medical Helps Pilots With CACI Conditions
Determine whether your condition qualifies under FAA CACI criteria
Help you prepare the correct medical records before your FAA medical exam
Reduce the risk of unnecessary FAA deferrals by reviewing documentation in advance
Guide you through next steps if your condition requires Special Issuance or additional FAA review
Pilots with medical conditions often worry about FAA certification. Our clinic helps pilots prepare properly, avoid unnecessary delays, and maximize the chance of same-day certification when possible.
Have a CACI Condition?
Get Help Before Your FAA Medical Exam
Pilots with medical conditions often qualify for FAA certification through the Conditions AMEs Can Issue (CACI) program when the correct documentation is prepared in advance.
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Contact Seattle Aviation Medical before your appointment so we can help you understand the requirements, prepare the proper records, and maximize the chance of same-day FAA medical certification.