So maybe we need to stop using the word disability, but I do think being 100% disabled should stop you from being able to work. disabled = not + able. If you see the payment as compensation for past pain and suffering we need to give you workman's comp or something, but if you can say straight face that you deserve 100% disability for what happened at work, but still are able to work full-time as a pilot, there is something wrong in my opinion.

If one can run with an artificial leg one is certainly ABLE to run, so not DISABLED, it is the meaning of the word. If you are asking if they deserve compensation for having "bled for me" that is a separate question. I think it is ok for the government to compensate veterans for their suffering, I do think it is OK to question how some can get 100% disability payments, and are still able to get a first class. There is a limited amount of VA money to dole out and a major airline pilot would not be my first choice.

Also, "fornicate"

So someone with 4 different qualifying disabilities - each worth 25% as an example - but none of them in and of themselves something that is not at least waiverable with a Special Issuance ought not be able to hold a 1st Class?

As another poster who answered JB - it seems many people really don't understand the VAs system and how disabilities are awarded.

The indictments don't question the VA's system of disability and how they tally it. It's about mental health, PTSD, and having severe depression and not disclosing any of this to the faa. And the individual(s) in question are still collecting VA benefits whilst holding a current first class medical and never made mention of their mental health history.


Wish them the best of luck, unfortunately they may be spending time in jail.

As you can see from my post, it is obvious I have no idea how the VA works, I do think it is unfortunate there is so many disabled veterans who are in real need, and there seem to be a few for whom the system has worked really well. Not trying to incite violence here, but the word disabled comes from not being able to do something. If it is just about making good for past suffering you need to call it something else.

Oh lordy. The VA rates disabilities in 10% increments. 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, etc.
But if they did use a 25% disability, four different 25% disabilities would add up to a 69% disability rating. Which would then be rounded to a 70% disability rating.

Yes, you definitely don't understand the VA system and disability ratings are awarded.

This is my situation exactly. I have arthritis in several joints and back problems... which individually are small disability ratings but combined my VA rating is pretty high. While I experience ongoing discomfort due to these conditions, none are limiting as far as my ability to move or perform normal activities. These conditions all occurred on active duty when I was not maintaining an FAA medical.... so they have no record of the diagnosis and treatment of such conditions. Now I have a first class certificate; however, none of my conditions would drive a "yes" answer to the fairly specific questions on the certificate application. I think I have nothing to fear since otherwise I am in good shape, mentally, cardiovascularly, and everything else, my joints are my only issue.

Am I oversimplifying this by thinking I have nothing to worry about?

No. just don't lie to the FAA about it or any medical disability benefits you do or may receive in the future. And thank you for your service.

When I separated, the VA rep came in and said to everyone verbatim “just go for it. Even if you think you don’t really have an issue, just file for disability and see what happens”. It’s a scam...period(obviously there are very justified cases)
My lower back hurts from pulling Gs. Can I fly an airplane just fine? Yup. I’m not gonna steal government money from taxpayers. Cause in all reality that’s what you are doing. You can tell yourself whatever you want. I’m ready to receive incoming from this but I don’t give 2 craps. This was a sore point for me after that VA meeting. We have a crazy deficit and dudes complain about it, yet they are pulling 40% disability while working full time as an airbus captain..... screw you pal.

If you have access to union medical I would call them ASAP. Go over your file and they can decide.



There is not one question on a faa medical form that ask, How do you feel today???!!! Every question is seeking the past history and current medical condition, regardless if you had a current faa medical or not. This includes medical history before you even thought about becoming a pilot. For example. Have you ever been hospitalized? Yes, for appendicitis in 1978.