FAA Medical Certification Insights
In-depth articles on FAA medical policy, certification pathways, and practical guidance for general aviation pilots navigating the aeromedical system.
Understanding the FAA's SSRI Policy: What Every Pilot Needs to Know
The FAA now allows pilots to fly while taking certain antidepressants — but the approval process is far from automatic. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the four approved SSRIs, the Special Issuance pathway, CogScreen testing, and what to expect at every step.
BasicMed vs. Traditional Medical Certificate: Which Is Right for You?
BasicMed offers a simpler path to medical clearance for many general aviation pilots, but it comes with real limitations. We break down the eligibility rules, operational restrictions, and key trade-offs to help you decide which pathway fits your flying.
5 Common Mistakes Pilots Make on MedXPress Form 8500-8
Form 8500-8 is the gateway to your FAA medical certificate, and errors on this form can cause delays, deferrals, or worse. We cover the five most common mistakes pilots make — and how to avoid them.