Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners

Decision Considerations - Aerospace Medical Dispositions
Item 55. Blood Pressure

Examining Options

  1. An applicant whose pressure does not exceed 155 mm mercury systolic and 95 mm mercury diastolic maximum pressure, who has not used antihypertensive medication for 30 days, and who is otherwise qualified should be issued a medical certificate by the Examiner.
  2. If the airman's blood pressure is elevated in clinic, you have any of the following options:
    • Recheck the blood pressure. If the airman meets FAA specified limits on the second attempt, note this in Block 60 along with both readings.
    • Have the airman return to clinic 3 separate days over a 7-day period. If the airman meets FAA specified limits during these re-checks, note this and the readings in Block 60. Also note if there was a reason for the blood pressure elevation.
    • Send the airman back to his/her treating physician for re-evaluation. If medication adjustment is needed, a 7-day no-fly period applies to verify no problems with the medication. If this can be done within the 14 day exam transmission period, you could then follow the Hypertension Disposition Table.

    The Examiner must defer issuance of a medical certificate to any applicant whose hypertension has not been evaluated, who uses unacceptable medications, whose medical status is unclear, whose hypertension is uncontrolled, who manifests significant adverse effects of medication, or whose certification has previously been specifically reserved to the FAA.

 

See Hypertension FAQs (PDF), Hypertension Disposition Table and CACI - Hypertension Worksheet (PDF).

Last updated: Thursday, March 23, 2023