Q&A: Conditions Which Would Revoke a Third-class Medical

Source: www.faa.gov/news/safety_briefing/2016/media/sepoct2016.pdf, By Penny Giovanetti, D.O. Manager, Aerospace Medical Specialties Division

Q. Is there a concise list of conditions which would revoke a third-class medical and where can they be found? How is reporting of any of those conditions made to the FAA? And finally, is there a path to restoration if/when the condition improves?

A. 14 CFR part 67 subpart D lists several conditions that are specifically disqualifying for third-class medical certificates. In addition, section 67.313 broadly covers any disease, defect, or use of medication which, in the judgment of the Federal Air Surgeon, may constitute a hazard to flying safety and are also disqualifying. Most commonly, airmen report these conditions on their MedXPress application for medical certificate, but they may also be reported directly by the airman, the AME, or a concerned citizen. Occasionally, they are anonymously reported via the FAA Hotline. Any of these conditions may be considered for special issuance, and airmen should consult with their AME regarding specifics. When all the requested information has been submitted, we deny only 0.08 percent of applications annually, so the path to restoration is wide.

Send your questions to SafetyBriefing@faa.gov. They will be forwarded to the Aerospace Medical Certification Division, without your name, and the answer will be published in an upcoming issue of FAA Safety Briefing.

Penny Giovanetti, D.O., received a bachelor’s degree from Stanford, a master’s in Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine from the University of Iowa and a doctorate from Des Moines University. She completed a 27-year career as an Air Force flight surgeon. She is board certified in aerospace medicine, occupational medicine, and physical medicine/rehabilitation. She is also a Fellow of the Aerospace Medical Association and a private pilot.