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Renewing Your Medical During the Pandemic

Much of our everyday lives have been disrupted due to COVID-19. Schedules are different and time has little meaning. Then one day you wake up and realize your FAA medical is either due, coming due, or past due. What do you do?  

Recognizing the unusual circumstances created by the coronavirus, in March the FAA took the unprecedented action of suspending the enforcement of medicals through June 30, 2020. That means if your medical expired between March 31 and June 30, the FAA will not take legal enforcement action against you.

Dr. William Busch, a senior aviation medical examiner who is the force behind AvDoc 51, the medical division of Stallion 51 at Kissimmee Gateway Airport (KISM) in Florida suggests that you stay current and study manuals, checklists and procedures during this time. He also advises using this time to gather up any required medical information of significance since your last medical.

Around June 30 there is going to be a gaggle of pilots looking to renew their medical certificates. That means now is the time to make an appointment with your AME. And take this time to discuss any questions and concerns via phone with your AME, Busch recommends.

Busch is available to help with FAA medical exams and questions during this shutdown period. He can also help you with your Special Issuance or HIMS program requirements via phone consultation at 407-846-0854.

Renewing Your Medical During the Pandemic