For pilots, an FAA medical certificate is more than a document. It represents the ability to fly, pursue a career, support a family and remain connected to the aviation community. That’s why even a seemingly routine medical issue can create significant uncertainty. Most pilots have heard the horror stories of … Read More
Medications, Pilots, & Flight
Matthew M. Cooper, MD MBA FACS FAsMA FCAMA CPL CFI
Contained in the “IMSAFE” checklist that pilots should complete at a minimum during the planning phase and before flight is the use of medications and their potential impact … Read More
Medical Risk and Flying: Perspective and Management
Matthew M. Cooper, MD MBA FACS FAsMA FCAMA CPL CFI
Medical conditions affect all of us at one time or another – rare is the exception. As pilots, we react especially because we grow concerned that our medical, our ticket … Read More
Many resources appear helpful to pilots navigating the FAA’s medical certification maze, but danger often hides behind good intentions. The reality is that most of these resources—despite legal or medical credentials—have little experience dealing with the FAA’s intricate, unforgiving certification system. Success requires more than professional training; it demands … Read More
PILOT MEDICAL SOLUTIONS
Effective Flight Fitness Habits for Pilots
Be Proactive About FAA Medical Certification
Successful pilots plan ahead. LeftSeat.com offers practical tools to make that process smoother—checklists for choosing the right Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), practice FAA medical exams, and a searchable medication list with an inquiry portal to … Read More
MORE PILOTS FLYING DESPITE NEW PILOT DECREASE (revised November 2025)
Pilot Medical Solutions is helping more new pilots despite reductions in airman employment opportunities
June 23, 2025 – The government shutdowns always fun, the subsequent backlogs create a solid choke-point. Following the Post-Pandemic Surge, airlines and corporate flight departments employment … Read More
If you are a pilot who has lost the privilege to fly as Pilot In Command due to a medical certification issue, Pilot Medical Solutions wants to help. If you or someone you know need help to get back in the left seat, … Read More
COVID-19 — While the Corona Virus is still present and potential can affect FAA medical certification for pilots, it is typically not a significant aeromedical issue. In addition, the FAA has liberalized medical certification requirements along with many other standards over the last few years. Unfortunately most pilots, and some … Read More
11/25/2025
Government Shutdown Drives Surge in Private Aeromedical Consultations
Although many pilots feel the impact of reduced staffing at the FAA’s medical certification offices in recent years, when there’s a full-blown official government shutdown this causes a sharp increase in calls to LeftSeat.com’s pilot help line. There are several reasons … Read More
