Military medical requirements

VTflyer

VTflyer

Well-Known Member
Flying in the military has been something I've wanted to do since I was a kid. But what has been holding me back for going for it is when I run I have to use an inhaler. I already have my degree and am a CFI, but until I heard someone say recently, I thought using an inhaler disqualified me to become a pilot or get in the military at all for that matter.

Is the military allowing pilots in if they have minor asthma? or is it just wishful thinking?

Thanks for the info
 
Navy side, I know it can be a show stopper depending on how recently you needed such medication. I know folks who have gotten waivers for childhood use, but I am not aware of anyone who got one for continued use of inhalers. Best to ask a military flight doc though
 
Go check with the VT AFROTC det. I'm down at Brooks with 3 guys from there gith now. All seem pretty cool; I'm sure the det commander (not sure what it's called) could give you a straight answer.
 
Any type of asthma or history of asthma is disqualifying for flying class (FC) I/IA, II or III.
Although data supports lowering the age of waiverable childhood asthma, recent discussion at the Aircrew Standards Working Group led to the decision to leave policy as stated in AFI 48-123. History of childhood asthma prior to the 13​
th birthday is waiverable; after age 12 (after the 13th birthday) waiver is not granted on initial flying physicals. Solitary EIB may be waivered for FC IIA and FC III after ACS review. The diagnosis of solitary EIB will only be entertained if no evidence of established asthma is present, and SABA should only have been used for prophylaxis. Use of more than three metered-dose inhalers per year is suspicious for utilization as rescue treatment."​

 
For every disqual condition, there's a waiver process. The only answer that will matter is what NAMI (for USN/USMC) or USA & USAF equivalents will say about your specific circumstances. Go to a pilot recruiter and ask them to schedule you for a medical. That's the only way to get the straight gouge.
 
To second Nihon Ni, you won't know until you try. But, just so you know, asthma is disqualifying just to enter the Air Force, nevermind a pilot slot. Best of luck!
 
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