I’m using ALPA medical - AMAS - in Colorado for help and am pleased with their service so far. If you aren't an ALPA member they will still work with you for a fee. No idea what the fees are though.

No experience with the Mayo Clinic, but they certainly have name recognition.

Thanks man. I think I will start the process with them. The fee is 1200 bucks for non-members but hopefully it's worth.

Were you able to get your medical back?

Seriously, 99+% of people with a spontaneous pneumothorax will get their medicals back. It’s a process, and it’s sort of tedious, and yeah, if you have the blebs it’s a little more involved, but as the old joke goes…

Another two thumbs up for Mayo Clinic in JAX. The head of pulmonology there, Dr Johnson, is phenomenal, as is their Aeromedical person, Dr Speicher. I've had the pleasure of being in both of their offices.

There is a two year waiting period, so I’ll let you know in 2023! So far it looks good though.

2 years waiting period for Pneumothorax? When I called AMAS they said 3 months wait and then if you get your Special medical the FAA monitors you for 2 years. After 2 years if no other pneumothoraxes have happened they will remove the Special Issuance requirements.

I have to check again with AMAS to find out for sure.

I didn’t have a pneumothorax. I was simply commenting on AMAS as a place to help get a medical back.

I see. Sorry I misunderstood.

I am an AME ( new to this site) Any update?


I am a senior AME with an office at KGKY ( Arlington TX). See my website at www.SambellPilotPhysical.com my cell 214 693 607five

Hi Asambell and welcome!
Sorry for the late response. No update as it is a 3 month waiting period before I can submit my documents to the FAA. I will keep everyone posted

Stay healthy.