Head, Face, Neck & Scalp Exam for Pilots Seeking Medical Certification

Page Contents
Relevant FAA Form 8500-8 Entry Number(s)
25
Subtitle
Head & Neck Exam
Description
FAA AMEs exam head and neck to determine the presence of any significant defects that could affect pilots.
FlightPhysical's Staff Take Home Message

AME will check for:

  • Skull defects
  • Gross deformities
  • Fistulas
  • Evidence of recent trauma
  • Limited range of motion of the head and neck
  • Scars

AME Instructions for the Exam

Content

II. Examination Techniques for the Head and Neck

The head and neck should be examined to determine the presence of any significant defects such as:

  •  
  • a. Bony defects of the skull
  • b. Gross deformities
  • c. Fistulas
  • d. Evidence of recent blows or trauma to the head
  • e. Limited motion of the head and neck
  • f. Surgical scars

FAA Aerospace Medical Disposition Grid for
ITEM 25. Head, Face, Neck, and Scalp

DISEASE/CONDITION

CLASS

EVALUATION DATA

DISPOSITION

Active fistula of neck, either congenital or acquired, including tracheostomy

All

Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report

Requires FAA Decision

Loss of bony substance involving the two tables of the cranial vault

All

Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report

Requires FAA Decision

Deformities of the face or head that would interfere with the proper fitting and wearing of an oxygen mask

1st & 2nd

Submit all pertinent medical information and current status report

Requires FAA Decision

3rd

Submit all pertinent medical information

If deformity does not interfere with administration of supplemental O² - Issue

Source 2014 AME Guide Page 49
FlightPhysical's Staff Take Home Message
References:
FAA AME Guide Version 12/03/2025