Afternoon all was wondering if I can be a pilot with a VA disability it does not affect my ability to work or anything like that just some mild depression I have a prescription for has anyone gone through this? Or is it a bust regardless?
Anthony,
You will need to speak with a FAA Medical Examiner, only they can answer questions of that nature.
Chris
Do you happen to know how I could get in touch with one?
Anthony,
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100% do what you need to do to be physically and mentally healthy. That is between you, your doctor and others you include in those goals.
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There are many medications that will deny flying or require extra tests from the FAA. This includes many anti-depressants. That being said, the FAA has committed to working in making these rules more inclusive while maintaining safety.
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The best thing you can do is consult an AME or an aviation medical advocate like AOPA or others easily found via google.
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No matter your situation, it is best to get your records together and organize them. The more organized you are and more info you gain prior to your AME medical appointment the better your chances are.
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Sometimes the FAA denies people or requires paperwork and tests. You have to role with the punches if this happens. I have one friend who was blown up by an IED with a TBI and got his license without issue, I have a cusin who was blown up with less of a TBI but was ultimately denied due to lack of VA documentation of his injury (would of required $5k in tests so he let it go).
Best of luck,
Chris F
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Google is a wonderful thing.
Adam
Anthony,
Much like others have said, definitely need to consult with an AME. You can find one by using Google and looking in your area. I would highly recommend a consultation with AME and not the actual medical examination. Ask what they might want to see or more know about.
I am rated with the VA for multiple issues to include mental health. I was given the go-ahead by my VA primary care doctor and then I also listed every known disability on the medical form I have through the VA. When mental health came up, it was discussed and I was granted my first class medical by the AME without having to go to the FAA for further review.
Biggest difference I can see between you and I is that I am NOT on medication. From what I can remember when I was researching, certain medications can be approved. Either way. as stated earlier and in other posts, schedule a consultation with an AME and go from there. Good luck!
TJ
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Anthony,
Use the following link to find the nearest AME to you:
Brady
Thank you Brady.