My Flight Surgeon
Sr. Aviation Medical Examiner
This is one of a series of posts about medical issues potentially affecting a pilot’s ability to obtain a medical certificate. In this series, we will look at common problems seen by the AME, review the requirements the FAA has to consider allowing one to fly and discuss what you need to do to expedite consideration by the FAA to allow you to fly. We plan to go through all of the medical history items in Section 18 on the front of Form 8500-8 over the next several months.
I would suggest that if you are unsure of how to answer these questions in Item 18, you discuss them with your AME before you complete the form. Some things may not be significant while others will require explanation.
Item 18.p. Suicide attempt
Suicide Attempt: A history of suicidal attempts or suicidal gestures requires further evaluation. All pertinent information regarding the suicide attempt must be submitted to the FAA for their consideration regarding the medical certificate. The ultimate decision of whether an applicant with such a history is eligible for medical certification rests with the FAA. The airman may need to obtain psychiatric and/or psychological examinations before the FAA considers their case.
I would suggest that if you are unsure of how to answer these questions in Item 18, you discuss them with your AME before you complete the form. Some things may not be significant while others will require explanation.
Item 18.p. Suicide attempt
Suicide Attempt: A history of suicidal attempts or suicidal gestures requires further evaluation. All pertinent information regarding the suicide attempt must be submitted to the FAA for their consideration regarding the medical certificate. The ultimate decision of whether an applicant with such a history is eligible for medical certification rests with the FAA. The airman may need to obtain psychiatric and/or psychological examinations before the FAA considers their case.
