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On this episode, we review the recently announced FAA strategy for hiring more air traffic controllers -- all while addressing the first pollen burst of the year and how pilots can navigate using antihistamines and other medications without jeopardizing their medical certificate.

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At the latest AME Grand Rounds, medical examiners heard updates from the FAA regarding a recent listening session in which a variety of aviation-related organizations provided insight into how the FAA's medical divisions could improve -- and they're listening.  On this episode, we review the updates from the latest information session provided to AMEs by the agency, plus meet one of the Mayo Clinic fellows in training within the Aerospace Medicine program.

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Although a very common condition,  the presence of glucose intolerance or what the FAA calls "pre-diabetes" can result in medical certification --  and in some cases, does not even require Special Issuance Authorization.  What are the newer drugs allowed and what is required to obtain or keep your medical certificate?

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The Human Intervention and Motivational Study, also known as the HIMS Program is an occupational substance abuse treatment program dedicated to helping all pilots return to the cockpit or flight deck. HIMS-trained AMEs, neuropsychologists, and psychiatrists in conjunction with employers, union representatives, and other support organizations work together to evaluate and support pilots with substance disorders or dependence, or other mental health conditions. On this episode, we discuss the program as well as lessons learned from the recent Advanced HIMS Seminar held in Louisville, Kentucky.

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Episodes of syncope or loss of consciousness can result from something as simple as a brief fainting episode -- up to the level of a severe head injury.  How it's documented and the testing required for FAA purposes can be critical. On this episode, we discuss the aeromedical implications of syncope and stand down times depending on the various severity of head injuries as well as a less common condition known as transient global amnesia (TGA). What testing is required and what information will the pilot with a loss of consciousness need to track down to have a successful journey towards flying again?

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On this episode we review the technology of coronary artery CT scanning and CT angiography. Although used as an effective screening tool for certain individuals, is this imaging something that pilots should pursue?  What happens if an elevated coronary calcium score is identified?  Will a pilot still be able to retain their medical certificate, and how much additional testing might be required?

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The FAA medical application, Form 8500-8, is completed electronically through the electronic platform called MedXPress. Are you ready for your next flight physical? What potential pitfalls are there with filling out the application form and how can you prevent those? We cover some of the most common applicant questions as well as places on the form that pilots can potentially get in trouble.

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On this episode, we review aeromedical certification consequences of passing kidney stones.  Major issue or just a "small pebble" in the shoe of a long aviation career?  Plus, we break down the new Air Force One Boeing 747 plagued by delays and cost overruns.

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On this episode we cover some of the topics discussed at the recent FAA aviation medical examiner grand rounds such as more information on color vision screening and CACI qualification for "low T," and we meet the newest addition to the Mayo Clinic aeromedical team.

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From stories of a pilot getting knocked out by a wild horse while walking along a beach to discussing the details of aeromedical certification with bladder cancer, this episode has a little bit of everything.