Conditions AMEs Can Issue (CACI) are a series of conditions which allow AMEs to regular issue the pilot medical certificate if the applicant meets the parameters of the CACI Condition Worksheet. The worksheets provide detailed instructions to the examiner and outline condition-specific requirements for the applicant.
- AME must review the disposition table BEFORE the CACI worksheet to verify a CACI is required.
- If all the CACI criteria are met and the applicant is otherwise qualified, the AME may issue on the first exam or the first time the condition is reported to the AME without contacting AMCD/RFS. Document the appropriate notes in Block 60 and keep the supporting documents in your files; they do not need to be submitted to the FAA at this time.
- If the requirements are not met, the AME must defer the exam and send the supporting documents to the FAA.
Examiners may issue an airman medical certificate for Arthritis under the provisions of an Authorization, if the applicant endorses or provides documentation demonstrating all of the following:
- Osteoarthritis that is well controlled without persistent daily symptoms, no functional limitations, and treatment is only with NSAIDS or anti-inflammatory medications on an as needed (PRN) basis. AME will summarize and annotate in Block 60
Examiners may possibly issue an airman medical certificate for Arthritis under the provisions of a CACI Authorization, but further local analysis is required through the following decision guide:
- Osteoarthritis on additional medication OR Autoimmune arthritis will require additional local review at the level of your AME (these are a "WAIVER MAYBE"). Your AME will refer to the CACI Arthritis Worksheet.
The AME must defer to the AMCD or the Regional Flight Surgeon if the condition is characterized by any of the following:
- Complicated Arthritis (Joint deformity or decreased range of motion or strength that would impair flight duties, or accompanying systemic disease)
- AME Will need to Defer and submit a detailed, current Clinical Progress Note. The note must be generated from a clinic visit with the treating physician no more than 90 days before the AME exam. It must include a detailed summary of the history of the condition; current medications, dosage, and side effects (if any); physical exam findings; results of any testing performed; diagnosis; assessment; plan (prognosis); and follow-up. It should note if there are any functional limitations. Operative notes (if applicable); and Copies of imaging reports and lab (if already performed by treating physician)
FAA AME Guide Dec 2025 version
Dec 28, 2025
Dec 28, 2025