Medical Mondays: What Happens to Your FAA Medical After an Aircraft Accident?
In this edition of Medical Mondays, aviation attorney Matthew Bulow explains what pilots can expect from the FAA medical certification process after an aircraft accident. In addition to NTSB investigations and insurance claims, the FAA reviews whether a pilot remains medically fit to fly.
Pilots can typically expect a letter from their regional flight surgeon requesting medical documentation, including EMS records, hospital records and a detailed report from the treating physician. That report should outline the pilot’s diagnosis, treatment plan, prognosis, functional limitations and any medications being taken.
Bulow also notes that these reviews are often handled directly through regional FAA offices rather than larger offices in Oklahoma City or Washington, D.C. Because regional offices usually have smaller backlogs, pilots may benefit from quicker communication and a faster path back to flying.
Key Insights
- FAA Follow-Up Is Standard: Pilots involved in an aircraft accident should expect a routine request for medical information from the FAA.
- Three Core Records Requested: The FAA commonly asks for EMS records, hospital records and a detailed physician progress note.
- Treating Physician Reports Matter: The clinical progress note should outline diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, limitations and medications.
- Medication Scrutiny Is Critical: The FAA reviews all medications, including dosage, frequency and possible side effects, to assess flight safety concerns.
- Regional Flight Surgeons Handle Many Cases: Post-accident medical reviews are often processed through regional FAA offices rather than Oklahoma City.
- Faster Communication Path: Regional offices frequently have smaller backlogs, allowing quicker review timelines and more direct communication.
- Medical Review Does Not Automatically Mean Certificate Loss: The FAA’s review process is intended to evaluate ongoing fitness to fly, not automatically revoke certification.
- Preparation Helps Protect Certification: Organized medical documentation and proactive communication with treating physicians can significantly streamline the FAA review process.
