The job of an aviator comes with a number of responsibilities to the passengers, airline and aircraft. To ensure the safety of all parties involved, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires pilots to have exams to ensure that they are medically cleared to fly. Dr. Steven Fishburn is an Aviation Medical Examiner who can conduct your flight medical exam at Fishburn Medical LLC - FAA Exams in Albuquerque, NM.
What Is a Flight Medical Exam?
A pilot must be cleared as medically fit, both physically and mentally, before flying an aircraft. This is for the safety of the public and passengers as well as for insurance reasons. During a flight medical exam, the pilot is checked for medical issues that could affect his or her ability to fly an aircraft. Certain diseases and conditions could cause a pilot to become incapacitated while flying, so officials and airlines must be aware of them and ensure that the pilot is taking doctor-prescribed medications and is up to date with necessary treatments.
When Is a Flight Medical Exam Necessary?
Before getting a pilot's license, an applicant must pass an initial flight medical exam. A new exam is also required either annually or every few years depending on the type of aircraft and piloting license. For example, a pilot who flies recreationally needs a new exam every two to five years depending on age. In some cases, a pilot may be asked to complete an on-demand exam at an employer's request.
What Happens at The Exam?
It's important to bring any required FAA paperwork to your appointment so that your Albuquerque, NM, flight medical exam doctor can fill it out and sign it. Expect your visit for the flight medical exam to take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Your Aviation Medical Examiner will do the following:
- Review and ask questions about your medical history as well as that of family members.
- Take blood and urine for testing.
- Take vitals (blood pressure, heart rate and other cardiovascular readings).
- Conduct a vision and hearing exam.
- Note any existing medications and consult you about any new conditions that require medication.
- Order X-rays or ultrasounds as needed.
- Complete a mental health questionnaire.
Be Ready To Take Flight
Once you have learned how to fly and pass your flight test, the hard part is over. Take care of all of your final details to get your FAA license as soon as possible, including your flight medical exam at Fishburn Medical LLC - FAA Exams in Albuquerque, NM. Call (505) 767-8852 today to schedule your visit with Dr. Steven Fishburn.