Can you be a pilot with bipolar?


Can you be a pilot with bipolar? Bipolar Disorder is one of the federally mandated disqualifying medical conditions by 14 CFR 67. The primary reason is because of the significant risk of suicide in people with bipolar disorder compared to the general population.


Can I be a pilot with mental health?

How the FAA is Reducing the Stigma of Mental Health, Help Pilots Receive Care. The FAA encourages pilots to seek help if they have a mental health condition since most, if treated, do not disqualify a pilot from flying.


Is LASIK allowed for pilots?

Commercial carriers each have different regulations about LASIK for their pilots. American, Continental, and FedEx permit LASIK, embracing the same 6-week healing and stabilization requirement as the FAA. United Airlines allows LASIK, but requires a 12-week healing period after care.


Can a pilot wear glasses?

The answer is YES – you can wear glasses and be an airline pilot! Perfect uncorrected vision is not a requirement to be a pilot or an air traffic controller. Glasses, contact lenses and refractive surgery are all (with certain limitations) acceptable ways to correct visual acuity problems.


What mental illnesses disqualify you from being a pilot?

However, certain medical conditions such as a psychosis, bipolar disorder and some types of personality disorder automatically disqualify a pilot from obtaining an FAA medical certificate. Former FAA Administrator Steve Dickson addressed pilot mental health at the University of North Dakota Mental Health Summit.


Do pilots have to pass a psych test?

Aviation Medical Examiners are trained to determine the pilot's mental health and fitness to fly. Before this medical exam, pilots are required to report any health professional visits during the previous three years, all medications being taken, and other medical history on their medical application form.


What age do airlines stop hiring pilots?

In the U.S., there are no FAA age limits for pilots except for commercial airline pilots employed by airlines certificated under 14 CFR Part 121. These airlines cannot employ pilots after they reach the age of 65. However, these pilots may stay on with a Part 121 carrier in some other role, such as flight engineer.