Had the surgery for back while in AF, have disability rating and get paid for it. Checked the block with short explanation. Never has been an issue with my FAA Class 1 Medical.

Lifter

Most likely. But I wouldn't lie about anything, even if they'd have a hard time getting a judge to jail you over hemorrhoids, they can still pull all your tickets with little chance of appeal.

True. The high-profile cases were essentially SSDI fraud and these folks went to jail (and rightfully so). However, the FAA later did a study in N. CA in ~'07-09 timeframe and pulled medicals/tickets for many, many folks - most were able to just provide additional info and get their medicals back, a few had to fight to get their tickets back. The bottom line is the FAA used this study to make the case to congress to obtain access to the VA & SSA databases which they received in late summer '11 or so.

What they're doing with that access currently is anyone's guess. I'm assuming that right now they're just cross checking it when you tick the box to make sure what you put down jives with what's in your records. However, bureaucracies never shrink, so the ever-present "mission creep" could be interpreted as they will eventually actively cross-check everything. What will they do with that info? Anyone's guess. Maybe nothing....but bureaucracies have to justify personnel and money, so my bet is they'll do something.

I can envision a few worst-case scenarios that would be a nightmare for pilots...

+1. I have a VA claim in for my neck/back because it should rightfully be characterized as "service connected". I don't regret all the great flying I did in the Navy, but know it'll haunt me someday. So, I'll gladly accept any compensation for the pain that is coming as a result of it - and particularly as other retirement benefits are getting slashed.

It's just not that $30 a month, but the fact that the Government is responsible for treating that injury for the rest of your life. Meaning if it requires an operation later in life, it is all paid for which could save you tens of thousands.

I am getting my First Class medical next week, but for the first time with a VA 30% disability rating. I will let you know how it goes and if the disability rating provides any roadblocks.

Having a rating, or the value of the rating, is irrelevant. It all comes down to the condition(s) in question. I would guess the vast majority of folks rated under 50% can get an FAA 1C unless they have something specifically disqualifying (ex diabetes). If the stuff your rated for doesn't intefere with flying and is stable, you should have no worries. Bring supporting docs for anything questionable.

Thanks. The disabilities are for the shoulder, knee, and lower back so I don't think it should impact my physical.

I know I bumped up an old thread here, but it was the first result that came up when I searched google to see if a disability rating impacts a FAA first class physical. There is some good information in here so I think the thread is still very relevant.

Anything to report? Appreciate any info you have!

I never had a problem been with the same doctor about 10yrs the first time I showed him my 40% and military medical records. Never had an issue. I just always fill in the blocks as previously reported no change.