Leukotriene Modifier (Asthma / Allergies)Generally Approved

Montelukast

Brand names: Singulair|Last verified: 2026-09-12

FAA Pathway: Acceptable medication (FAA allergy guidance); asthma itself follows the CACI Asthma Worksheet

The FAA lists montelukast (Singulair) as an acceptable allergy medication, and the CACI Asthma Worksheet lists leukotriene receptor antagonists such as montelukast as acceptable for asthma. When you first start it, the FAA requires a 48-hour ground trial with no side effects before you fly. If you take it for asthma, your AME can issue only if your asthma meets the CACI criteria, including limits on symptoms and rescue inhaler use.

Check your medications

Look up any medication in our FAA compatibility database.

Medication Checker

Related Resources

Pilot Tip

Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.

Certification Details

Medication Status

Acceptable per the FAA Allergy medication guidance; listed as an acceptable asthma medication on the CACI Asthma Worksheet

Starting the Medication

48-hour ground trial after first use, with symptoms controlled and no side effects, before you fly

For Allergies

No post-dose waiting time once established; don't fly while you have symptoms, whatever the treatment

For Asthma (CACI)

Your treating physician finds your asthma stable with no changes recommended; symptoms no more than 2 days per week; rescue inhaler use no more than 2 times per week; oral steroids for flare-ups no more than 2 times per year; and in the last year, no hospital admissions and no more than 2 clinic or urgent care visits for flare-ups. Spirometry within 90 days with FEV1 and FVC at least 80% of predicted, plus a clinical progress note within 90 days

If Asthma Criteria Aren't Met

If you don't meet every CACI item, the AME defers and the FAA decides, which may lead to a Special Issuance. Later renewals can follow the AASI for Asthma

Sources

FAA AME Guide, Pharmaceuticals
FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Allergy – Antihistamine & Immunotherapy (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/AllergyAntihistamineImmunotherapyMedication.pdf)
FAA CACI Asthma Worksheet, updated 09/24/2025 (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/C-CACIAsthma.pdf)
FAA AME Guide — Item 35. Lungs and Chest: Asthma Disposition, updated 09/08/2026 (faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/exam_tech/item35/amd/asthma)

Last verified: 2026-09-12

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Montelukast allowed for pilots?

The FAA considers Montelukast (Singulair) to be "Generally Approved" for medical certification purposes. The FAA lists montelukast (Singulair) as an acceptable allergy medication, and the CACI Asthma Worksheet lists leukotriene receptor antagonists such as montelukast as acceptable for asthma. When you first start it, the FAA requires a 48-hour ground trial with no side effects before you fly. If you take it for asthma, your AME can issue only if your asthma meets the CACI criteria, including limits on symptoms and rescue inhaler use.

What is the FAA status of Montelukast?

Montelukast has a status of "Generally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Acceptable medication (FAA allergy guidance); asthma itself follows the CACI Asthma Worksheet.

Can I fly while taking Montelukast?

Montelukast is generally compatible with flying. However, you must report it on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8) and ensure you are not experiencing side effects that could impair flight safety. Always consult your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).

Important Notice

The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.

The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.