FAA Medical Certification Insights
In-depth articles on FAA medical policy, certification pathways, and practical guidance for general aviation pilots navigating the aeromedical system.
How to Find the Right AME for Your FAA Medical
Not all Aviation Medical Examiners are created equal — and your choice of AME matters most when your case is complex. Here's how to evaluate AMEs, use the FAA Designee Locator, and find the right examiner for your situation.
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.