Page 28 - Volume 15 Number 1

the applications is restricted to only the AME to whom the pilot provides a confirmation number. Our office encourages the use of MedXPress.
10. Remember to check the blocks regarding drug and alcohol offenses and other legal encounters.
Many applications are returned to airmen because they fail to check
any answer on questions 18.v. (convictions or administrative actions related to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs) and 18.w. (history of other convictions). This results in the medical application being returned to the pilot for completion. As above, this question not only includes events since your last FAA medical exam, but also requires a “Yes” response if you EVER have had a conviction or administrative action.
The newest version of the FAA medical application, Form 8500-8, now asks if an applicant has ever been ARRESTED for an offense involving drugs or alcohol while driving (18v). Previously, only convictions required a YES response. For pilots who are now required to respond affirmatively, an explanation of the circumstances and police/driving records may be required.
The FAA has taken an aggressive approach to DUIs since 2009. For an airman having a second DUI or any DUI with a BAC above 0.15 mg percent, regardless of whether there was a conviction or not, a full substance abuse evaluation is required before the AME can issue a medical certificate. In many cases, the AME is not authorized to issue the medical certificate until the FAA has reviewed the details. Airmen with DUIs should get this cleared with the FAA well before their next medical application is due.
Concealing a moving violation involving the use of alcohol or illegal drugs is foolish. The pilot’s signature at the bottom of the application authorizes the FAA to search the National Driver’s Registry for any violations. Not only will concealment of an offense trigger a medical evaluation, but the Securities Division of the FAA may pursue enforcement action against your Pilot Certificate. Falsification of a medical application is subject to up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and revocation of a pilot certificates and ratings.
11. Be prepared to send further information to the FAA upon request.
Occasionally, pilots will receive a letter from the FAA after they have been issued a medical certificate by their AME. The letter states that the FAA is unable to determine their eligibility for an airman medical certificate based on incomplete information regarding some medical condition. The FAA specifically requests information and/or further studies to be submitted prior to an eligibility determination.
Falcon In- surance Agency Inc. Half Page 4/C Ad
26 • ­TWIN & TURBINE
JANUARY 2011