My son is currently pursuing a degree in aviation with a Pro-Pilot concentration at an accredited university. He currently has his 2nd class medical certificate. Today, he received a letter from the FAA stating that they have reviewed his records and that he is eligible for the second class certificate as long as there are no further changes due to a "history of vasovagal syncope".
A year and half ago, he severely sprained his ankle. As he walked down a flight of stairs a few hours after the injury, he noticed that the veins in the ankle area were very distended. After reaching the bottom of the stairs, he passed out for about 10 seconds. (I know this since I witnessed the event.) Worried mother that I was, I insisted on a visit to the emergency room, followed by a visit to our family physician, followed (at my request) by a visit to a cardiologist. All tests were completely normal and the cardiologist stated that it was simply an isolated vasovagal syncope event related to the sprained ankle. He has had no problems whatsoever since the incident.
So, the letter has both of us a bit rattled. My son called the FAA and the person suggested that he go ahead and apply for a 1st class certificate and fax medical records and a letter from the physician involved.
Question: Should we send a letter from the cardiologist AND the family physician or just the specialist? Exactly what does the FAA need the letter to state? I hate to think that a single event will keep this kid from obtaining his 1st class and sure would like to know before next semester and the $8500 fee for Commercial Flight Lab!!
Thanks,
Worried Mom
A year and half ago, he severely sprained his ankle. As he walked down a flight of stairs a few hours after the injury, he noticed that the veins in the ankle area were very distended. After reaching the bottom of the stairs, he passed out for about 10 seconds. (I know this since I witnessed the event.) Worried mother that I was, I insisted on a visit to the emergency room, followed by a visit to our family physician, followed (at my request) by a visit to a cardiologist. All tests were completely normal and the cardiologist stated that it was simply an isolated vasovagal syncope event related to the sprained ankle. He has had no problems whatsoever since the incident.
So, the letter has both of us a bit rattled. My son called the FAA and the person suggested that he go ahead and apply for a 1st class certificate and fax medical records and a letter from the physician involved.
Question: Should we send a letter from the cardiologist AND the family physician or just the specialist? Exactly what does the FAA need the letter to state? I hate to think that a single event will keep this kid from obtaining his 1st class and sure would like to know before next semester and the $8500 fee for Commercial Flight Lab!!
Thanks,
Worried Mom
