Better Care Medical

Getting certified FAA 1st class pilot medical health certificate with migraines?

I was diagnosed with classic migraines a few years ago and am aspiring to become a pilot with my 1st class medical certificate someday hopefully. The migraines are not very frequent, or severe when I have them, but would this condition disqualify me from getting my 1st class certificate?

Public Comments

1. Migrains are disqualifing. You might be able to obtain a special issuance..You will need a letter from your PCP. If you have had a migraine within the preceding 12 months from your medical, then you will need a letter from your PCP that details what meds you are on, if any, frequency, severity, etc. If you have very mild symptoms, very infrequent, and are not on any daily medicine, then it is very probable you will be able to get the SI. email me and I will provide a email address for a Aviation Medical Examiner that can give you the gouge.
2. You're medically toast. Only after many years of verifiable migraine-free existence should you even consider flying. It's not the medical exam that's your problem -- it's the medical condition! Be responsible. If you feel you MUST fly, take flying lessons, or fly right-seat for your buddies at the airport. Just don't think you could, or should, be PIC.
3. Migraines are a super distraction. My wife gets them and she becomes quite sensitive to light...even experiences changes in her vision. Be honest with yourself.
4. There's a new development in migraine therapy: http://www.neurologyreviews.com/feb04/nr_feb04_foramen.html