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Coping with CAMI

Ben Bishop Art
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA's medical certification system, led by the Office of Aerospace Medicine, processes pilot medicals through Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) and higher-level offices (RFS, AMCD), aiming to approve qualified applicants, often on the spot.
  • Pilots with disqualifying medical conditions can obtain certifications through waivers, primarily Special Issuances (for progressive conditions) or Statements of Demonstrated Ability (SODAs for static conditions), though these processes are detailed and can be lengthy.
  • Despite administrative challenges like processing times and a previously opaque system, the FAA is committed to certifying pilots with a focus on safety, with BasicMed offering an alternative for eligible aviators.
See a mistake? Contact us.

FAA’s Office of Aerospace Medicine (AAM) in Washington, D.C., led by Dr. Susan Northrup, the Federal Air Surgeon, has jurisdiction over CAMI. The divisions of CAMI we care most about are Aerospace Medical Certification (AMCD), Medical Specialties, and the nine Regional Flight Surgeons (RFS), who can issue or deny most medicals. They can help resolve certificate issues, and you’re free to call them directly if you wish. All these levels mean interesting processes.

You and Your AME

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