Changes made by FAA to Mental Health Evaluation Criteria for Pilots

The FAA has recently updated its guidelines regarding mental health diagnoses for pilots, specifically focusing on uncomplicated anxiety, depression, and related conditions. If a pilot has been off medication for at least two years, there are no concerning issues on a specific questionnaire, and the aviation medical examiner (AME) has no reservations, the FAA review process can be omitted.

The questionnaire used by AMEs addresses more severe mental health issues such as suicidal thoughts, self-harm, hospitalization, and court-ordered evaluation. It emphasizes the importance of AMEs being thorough and cautious in their evaluations. If all answers on the questionnaire indicate no concerns, the AME is permitted to issue the pilot’s certificate with a note documenting the discussion of mental health history and the absence of any red flags.

However, if any item on the questionnaire raises concerns, the AME is required to defer the decision to the FAA for further review. The FAA’s guidance stresses the significance of careful consideration and adherence to the outlined procedures in evaluating pilots with mental health histories. These updated guidelines aim to streamline the review process while ensuring the safety and well-being of pilots and passengers.