Does Astigmatism Disqualify You From Piloting An Aircraft?

As someone who has always dreamed of flying, I was disheartened when my optometrist diagnosed me with astigmatism during a routine eye exam. At that moment, I thought my dreams of becoming a pilot may have been shattered. After doing some research however, and speaking with professionals in the industry, I quickly learned that having astigmatism does not […]

Does High Cholesterol Disqualify You from Being a Pilot?

High cholesterol is undeniably an adverse health condition that raises questions about its ramifications on a pilot’s ability to exercise the privileges of pilot-in-command. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has comprehensively addressed the issue of high cholesterol, having established a set of guidelines and criteria for both Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) as well as for […]

BMI and Pilots: Clearing the Air on Limits

Maintaining a healthy BMI is a weighty subject (pun intended) in the field of aviation. Commercial pilots, in particular, may face the challenge of maintaining a healthy weight due to the sedentary nature of their profession. For all pilots, whether general aviation or commercial, excess weight not only affects their personal health but can also […]

DECIDE: An Essential Tool In Every Pilot’s Safety Arsenal

As a pilot, ensuring the safety of your flights is of paramount importance. In emergency situations, quick decision-making can make all the difference between a successful flight and becoming another entry in the NTSB’s Aviation Accident Database. That’s why every pilot needs to equip themselves with the DECIDE model as a critical tool in their safety arsenal. […]

Can you become a pilot with sleep apnea?

Pilots who suffer from sleep apnea may be in for a rude awakening. This sleep disorder has the potential to crush your dreams of pursuing aviation, whether it be as a hobby or for a career. Understanding the symptoms, effects, and treatments associated with sleep apnea is crucial for ensuring your aviation journey can take […]

IMSAFE: Pilot Fitness Self-Assessment Before You Go Flying

Regardless of whether you are a professional pilot or whether you fly as a hobby, safety is the common denominator that serves as the guiding principle for all of your decision making. Sound decision making is critical to every phase of flight, not just from takeoff to landing, but even before you head to the […]