Originally Posted by
Brian3613
I just got my first-class medical and will be starting flight school in the fall. What I've noticed is that the FAA's strict rules seem extremely unreasonable and unfair. When were their guidelines written? Back in the 50's? Just from reading some threads in the forums and visiting the FAA's website, it seems that they're assuming all pilots are to go throughout life as a finely tuned machine. As you go through life, you better not run into any minor health problems. God forbid you may need to be medicated for any common ailment. It seems these sort of strict rules and guidelines will only cause trouble in the long run. Pilots will be hesitant to seek help for any ailment he or she may think wil have a negative affect on their career. This is the same line of narrow-minded thinking that culture that goes on in the military. I think this is a problem that needs to be addressed and fixed.
First off, military operations require more aerobatics, more G's, and faster pressure changes than civilian flying. On top of that, you are likely to go for extended periods with marginal rest and harsh living conditions, while operating at night and other hazardous conditions.
Also, the civilian medical only needs to certify you for 6-12 months. The military specs take into account that if they invest millions of dollars and years of training they need you to still be able to fly as a senior officer age 40and beyond. For this reason the military specs are even more rigid...to ensure that you have some room to age.
I assume you are reading part 67 where it lists all of the medical requirements? That stuff is meaningless...it's just legal-speak to cover the FAA's butt. The REAL detailed medical requirements are in FAA documents which pilots do not have access to.
But don't worry about it...the FAA is the easiest avaition medical in the world. Your ear tubes will not be a problem, although they may want some more documentation.