Hi, I have some questions regarding the criminal background check section when applying for an ATP license through the FAA. A quick rundown, I am currently a biology major, but have always wanted to be an airline pilot since I was six years-old. I am close to graduating, but my mind keeps telling me I would be much happier in the skies.
Now, I have concerns with my federal background check through FAA/FBI. I have never been charged with felony or any violent misdemeanor crime. I was addicted to opioids in college and got arrested a lot for petty theft/retail theft, one public intoxication and a disorderly conduct. Now, most of those charges were brought down from misdemeanors to a summary (citation) offense. However, 4 charges were convictions for low-level misdemeanor.
I have been sober for 4 years now and have completely changed my life. I haven’t been in trouble since 2017 and hope the FAA will see that I have been rehabilitated and that my crimes were due to my addiction and not my true-self.
Do I have a chance of flying? What are your recommendations for handling this? Any recommendations for FAA attorneys that I can call that are knowledgeable in this area?
You’re going to need to contact a HIMS AME. That’s a medical examiner that specializes in substance abuse issues. They can best advise you as to the process and your options. There are a number of threads on this forum that discuss the process but ultimately it’s an FAA decision. What I can tell you is it will require time and money.
Thank you for replying to my thread! I will contact them after Memorial Day. Yes, I assumed it would cost an arm and a leg to get through all this. However, it’s so worth it to fly.
If you do end up being issued a First Class Medical Certificate through a HIMS AME, I would also check out AOPA’s membership. It’s optional to join, but if you think you will benefit from their services then I think it’s worth it for your situation.
I Second Tory on AOPA Premium Membership. It includes a consultation and some legal fee coverage (if required).
2 questions you should ask:
What’s my process to get 1st class medical?
Will I be able to enter Canada or do I need a TRP.
I’m about to fly so can’t write it all. Use the search function and you can find similar posts and links to all you need.
Have all your charges/convictions / rehab time ready because a lawyer can’t answer your questions without that info.
I’d personally talk to an aviation attorney before an FAA HMS AME.
As others have said, you first need to obtain an FAA medical. Beyond that, there is the question of whether or not an airline will hire you. I have to tell you that two things the airlines really do not like are drugs and stealing. I would strongly encourage you to contact a few different regional airlines and speak to their recruiting departments before you commit to spending any money on flight training.