Diabetes : What to Expect at the Flight Physical

Item 48: FAA Policies on the Airman Medical Exam

Apr 2014

Guidance is compiled and interpreted by professional pilots and physicians at FlightPhysical.com from the 2014 AME Guide pages 154-155, 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).


Metabolic Conditions Involving Poor Glucose Control

Hyperglycemic Conditions

DISEASE/CONDITION

CLASS

EVALUATION DATA

DISPOSITION

Diabetes Insipidus All Submit all pertinent medical records; current status to include names and dosage of
medication(s) and side effects
Requires FAA Decision
Pre-Diabetes (Metabolic Syndrome, Impaired Fasting Glucose, Insulin Resistance, Glucose Elevation/Intolerance, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) All Review all pertinent medical records; current status to include names and dosage of medication(s) and side effects See Pre-Diabetes Worksheet (PDF version).
If airman meets all certification criteria - Issue.

All others require FAA decision. Submit all evaluation data.
Diabetes Mellitus - Diet Controlled All See Diabetes Mellitus - Diet Controlled Protocol If no glycosuria and normal HbA1c - Issue

All others require FAA decision. Submit all evaluation data.
Diabetes Mellitus II - Medication Controlled (non insulin) All See Diabetes Mellitus II - Medication Controlled (non insulin) Protocol Initial Special Issuance - Requires FAA Decision

Followup Special
Issuances - See AASI Protocol
Diabetes Mellitus I & II - Insulin Treated All See Diabetes Mellitus I & II - Insulin Treated Protocol Requires FAA Decision


This page discussed the Diabetes portion of the General Systemic 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