Heart Disease? Many Pilots Return to Flying.
Coronary artery disease, heart attacks, stents, and bypass surgery are all certifiable through the FAA Special Issuance process. The key is proper preparation and documentation.
The Special Issuance Pathway
Cardiac conditions go through Special Issuance, which means your documentation is reviewed by FAA Aerospace Medical Certification in Oklahoma City. The process requires a waiting period after your cardiac event or procedure, followed by a comprehensive workup demonstrating stability.
Many pilots with stable coronary artery disease, stents, and even post-bypass fly professionally with annual recertification.
Timing and Stability Are Key
The FAA requires specific waiting periods — typically 6 months post-stent or bypass, and longer after a heart attack. Rushing the application before you're stable and fully documented is one of the most common mistakes.
Comprehensive cardiac workup results, current medications, and a cardiology evaluation are essential components of every cardiac application.
Get Your Roadmap
Your specific cardiac history — type of event, procedures, current medications, ejection fraction, time since event — all determine your pathway and timeline. Our assessment builds a personalized roadmap so you know exactly what to prepare.
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