Non-Airline Aviators
Navigating mental health, substance use, DUI history, and other complex FAA medical certification issues
This section of Medical Certification Help is designed specifically for non-airline aviators
navigating FAA medical certification situations that include:.
mental health diagnoses with or without medication
substance use history
DUI / alcohol-related driving offenses (recent or distant)
neurological or cognitive concerns needing evaluations
FAA deferrals or Special Issuance processes related to the above
This is specialized FAA medical certification information, not basic 101.
Quick Links
Who This Is For…
This section is for you if:
you’ve been told “this might be complicated”
you’re worried about making the wrong move
an AME has mentioned deferral, HIMS, or Special Issuance
you have a DUI or alcohol-related history and aren’t sure how the FAA will view it
you’re unsure whether to apply yet
If you have answered yes to certain questions on the 8500-8 form
you want to understand consequences before acting
If you are applying for a routine medical certificate with no complicating history, this section may not be what you’re looking for.
Why This Exists…
FAA medical certification is a regulatory process, not healthcare.
For non-airline aviators with histories, information is crucial.
Many aviators enter this system without understanding:
the role of AMEs as FAA designees
when information becomes permanent
which decisions can cause road blocks
why costs and delays escalate quickly
This section exists to reduce harm through education and informed decision-making.
How to Use This…
You do not need to read everything in order.
Begin with Start Here if you’re unsure what’s happening
Go to Choosing a AME if you’re considering an AME or paperwork
Use the website to prepare and the webinars to ask questions and connect
You are not behind. You are right where you need to be.
👉 Start Here: Understanding the System Before You Act
Webinars Are The Third Wednesday Of Each Month:
Next Webinar: February 18, 2026
Zoom Meeting ID: 83334397229
Monthly Webinar Series
Non-Airline Med NAV
*Each Page will be launched about one week post webinar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime.
For more information contact:
stephanie@clearskiesaheadnonprofit.org
452-478-7638
-
This series is designed for non-airline aviators (general aviation, student pilots, independent commercial, instructional, recreational, future pilots, and air traffic controllers) who are facing FAA medical certification issues, including mental health history, substance use, neurological concerns, or prior deferrals or denials.
-
No. This series focuses on understanding the FAA medical system, not guaranteeing outcomes. The goal is to help participants make informed, strategic decisions and avoid common mistakes that lead to unnecessary delays, costs, or loss of options.
-
No. This series is educational, not a substitute for professional care or legal advice. It helps you understand how the system works so that future interactions with AMEs, clinicians, or consultants are better informed and more effective.
-
Because order matters in FAA medical certification. Once information enters the FAA system, it usually cannot be removed. Acting without understanding the system—especially early—can unintentionally escalate a case or eliminate alternatives.
-
Yes. In fact, this series is especially valuable before submitting MedXPress or scheduling an exam. Several sessions focus on early decisions, control points, and how to protect options before paperwork begins.
-
Yes. Later sessions explain how the FAA responds to cases, how to interpret letters, what monitoring and renewals involve, and how to manage the process over time—including setbacks, step-downs, and reissuance.
-
No. The series does not discourage treatment. Clear Skies Ahead encourages aviators to seek help and put health and well-being first. It emphasizes informed decision-making, helping participants understand how care, documentation, and disclosure interact with FAA requirements.
-
Part 121 airline pilots must follow the guidance of their airline and union. This information is focused on non-airline aviators, who don't have access to structured employer and union support. However, you may gain something from the information provided.
-
Yes. Dedicated sessions explain psychological, neuropsychological, and psychiatric evaluations, including what they are, why the FAA uses them, how results are framed, and what makes reports usable versus problematic.
-
Yes. The final sessions address alternate paths such as BasicMed, and Sport Pilot/MOSAIC considerations, timing decisions, and how to think about identity and purpose beyond the FAA medical process.
Adam Banks —Denise Connell — Stephanie Day — Kevin Gieseke — Tami Halloran — Morten Kroge —Tanya Kroge
Webinar Team Contributors
Disclaimer: Educational resource. Policies and processes change—always verify current FAA guidance and work with a HIMS‑trained AME.