Aviation Unions Call on FAA to Halt New Medical Certificate Rules

A coalition of 14 unions and pilot associations, including the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), Allied Pilots Association (APA), and the Flight School Association of North America (FSANA), has penned an open letter to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The group urges the FAA to delay and reconsider implementing new rules for medical certificate applications, set to take effect on January 1, 2025. 

Policy Changes and Concerns 

The FAA's new policy marks a significant departure from its current practice of deferring applications that require additional information. Under the revised rules, medical certificates will be initially denied if more information is needed. According to the unions, this shift stems from the FAA’s interpretation of Section 801 of the FAA Reauthorisation Act 2024, which addresses general aviation regulations concerning the re-examination of pilots or certificate holders. 

The unions expressed concerns about the potential implications of this change, stating, “The FAA’s use of denials, instead of the currently used deferral, as a routine part of the medical application process will significantly increase unneeded confusion for applicants and introduce unintended consequences for those under initial denial.” 

Impact on Pilot Careers 

One of the most pressing issues highlighted in the letter is the potential impact on pilots’ future career prospects. Medical denials would need to be reported on future applications, including employment applications. This could lead to confusion among hiring managers and create unnecessary barriers for pilots. 

“The ramifications of an increase in airmen receiving and reporting medical denials on these applications and the need to educate hiring managers about this change are significant and will take considerable time,” the letter stated. 

A Call for Transparency and Collaboration 

While the unions acknowledged the FAA’s commitment to enhancing medical certification processes, they argued that the new policy contradicts the regulator’s goal of expediting approvals. They noted that the submission of complete and accurate information during the initial application process would be a more effective way to reduce administrative burdens and improve outcomes for applicants. 

The letter also emphasised the importance of system modernisation and transparency, both for applicants and their Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs). The unions expressed a strong desire to work collaboratively with the FAA to refine the process. 

The Path Forward 

Members of the aviation industry remain committed to maintaining a cooperative relationship with the FAA to address concerns about these policy changes. “In the collaborative environment that you have fostered, we urge the FAA to stay the implementation of this medical certificate policy change,” the letter concluded. 

Brookfield Aviation International stands in solidarity with the aviation industry in advocating for fair and transparent regulatory practices. We believe that constructive dialogue and collaboration are essential to ensuring a thriving and sustainable aviation sector. 

We encourage aviation professionals and stakeholders to share their feedback with the FAA on these proposed changes to ensure that policies support the industry’s growth while safeguarding pilots’ careers. Together, we can shape a brighter future for aviation.