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Sinus Exam for Pilots Seeking Medical Certification

Item 27: Sinuses

Apr 2014

Abbreviated Briefing:

Sinusitis

  • OK if Responsive to Certain Therapies & Not Severe

 

Sinus Tumors Maybe OK if

  • Benign
  • 1 Year Stable
  • Do not Block Sinus Ventilation

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Guidance is compiled and interpreted by professional pilots and physicians at FlightPhysical.com from the 2014 AME Guide pages 48-50, FAA and FDA web data (www.FAA.gov & www.FDA.gov), instructions specified in the Aeronautical Information Manual, Federal Air Surgeon Bulletins from 1999-2015, and 14 CFR Part 61 and Part 67 (the FARs).

Evidence of sinus disease must be carefully evaluated by a specialist because of the risk of sudden and severe incapacitation from barotrauma.

FAA Aerospace Medical Disposition Grid for
Item 27. Sinuses

DISEASE/CONDITION

CLASS

EVALUATION DATA

DISPOSITION
Sinusitis - Acute of Chronic



Sinusitis, intermittent use of topical or non-sedating medication

All

Document medication, dose and absence of side effects

Responds to treatment without any side effects - AME Authorized to Issue the Certificate

Severe-requiring continuous use of medication or effected by barometric changes

All

Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report

Requires FAA Decision

Sinus Tumors



Benign - Cysts/Polyps

All

If no physiologic effects, submit documentation

Asymptomatic, no observable growth over a 12-month period, no potential for sinus block - AME Authorized to Issue the Certificate

Malignant

All

Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report

Requires FAA Decision

Source: Adapted From 2014 AME Guide Pages 48 and 50

This page discussed the Sinus Exam portion of the ENT section of the Fight Physical Examination required of pilots.


Reminder: use FlightPhysical.com to familiarize yourself with aviation medical regulations and guidelines, but always discuss your specific situation with one or more AMEs before dedicating resources toward expensive clinical workups. Find an AME now

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