Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners

Decision Considerations - Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 35. Lungs and Chest - Pleura and Pleural Cavity

Common Conditions and Course of Action
Disease/Condition Class Evaluation Data Disposition
Acute fibrinous pleurisy;

Empyema;

Pleurisy with effusion; or Pneumonectomy		 All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report, and PFT's Requires FAA Decision
Malignant tumors or cysts of the lung, pleura or mediastinum All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Other diseases or defects of the lungs or chest wall that require use of medication or that could adversely affect flying or endanger the applicant's well-being if permitted to fly All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Pneumothorax - Traumatic All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report If 3 months after resolution - Issue
Sarcoid, if more than minimal involvement or if symptomatic All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision
Spontaneous pneumothorax 10 All Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report Requires FAA Decision

10 A history of a single episode of spontaneous pneumothorax is considered disqualifying for airman medical certification until there is x-ray evidence of resolution and until it can be determined that no condition that would be likely to cause recurrence is present (i.e., residual blebs). On the other hand, an individual who has sustained a repeat pneumothorax normally is not eligible for certification until surgical interventions are carried out to correct the underlying problem. A person who has such a history is usually able to resume airmen duties 3 months after the surgery. No special limitations on flying at altitude are applied.

Last updated: Thursday, January 7, 2021