lov2fly

I had a spinal cord injury a decade ago the result of which is some atrophy on my left shoulder which limits my range of motion. I can bend the elbow to 90 degrees and I can push back and forward. Below the elbow my forearm and hand are not affected. The limitation is in reaching over my head with the left arm. I use my right hand to place the left hand were it is needed. I drive a stick (manual trans), cycle and motorcycle. I have flown a few hours on a 152 with no control problems. I now plan to train for real, with the majors as my goal.
My AME has told me he does not think this would be a problem. I had him defer my second class application to the FAA, to include a medical history and current status from my neurologist. If I get my second class now, could I get rejected in the future with no change in my condition by an airline? Even if the FAA finds me fit?

I have read here that the majors medical examiners are more strict than the outside AME doctors.

Are there any major AP with minor disabilities as I have descried.

I know there is a one arm pilot flying skydivers in an otter somewhere.

Slice

If you can pass the FAA Class I medical, I see no reason why you couldn't be employed somewhere. Don't know what you mean by major medical examiners but most companies in the U.S. don't do an employment physical anymore. UPS did until sometime last year but no longer.

Joe84

Make sure you can get a First Class medical. A second class medical is only good for commercial privileges. I would do that before starting advanced training.

lov2fly

This is what I wanted to hear Slice.
I will start with the PPl as soon as I get the medical. I'll see the neurologies in a weeks. I hope that FAA responds quickly. I chose class 2 as the requirements are the same as class 1 and I'm doing to do this part time. weekends/night.

FlyerJosh

The only concern that I might have is that if/when you move up to a larger aircraft, there may be issues pushing items on the overhead panel, particularly as a First Officer. Just something to consider.

lov2fly

I have thought about this. I know things will be much easier from the captains chair for me. Too bad I can't skip that step...

I would love to sit the first officer chair on a regional jet an see what my limits are... I'll get to that sooner or later.

I am aware that I may be required to get a (S.O.D.A.) Statement of Demonstrated Ability. I understand this like a check ride administered by the Federal Air Surgeon.

Slice

Next time you ride an RJ or even a 737, be the last one off and talk to the crew. If someone had asked me to jump in the seat real quick, I'd have let them as long as we weren't rushing to turn the jet. Never hurts to ask anyway.