Outdated aeromedical rules discourage pilots from seeking care for mental health. It's time to modernize the system.
The health and wellbeing of pilots is central to aviation safety. For too long, the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) lengthy medical certification and review process has contributed to a culture of silence surrounding mental health issues. Airline pilots undergo thorough vetting and medical exams throughout their careers, and ALPA supports these rigorous standards. However, pilots should not be penalized or have their careers delayed or derailed for doing the right thing by seeking treatment when needed.
We have been a leader in developing and implementing programs that support pilots’ mental health, including our Pilot Peer Support program. We also co-chaired the FAA’s Mental Health & Aviation Medical Clearances Aviation Rulemaking Committee (the "Mental Health ARC"), which issued consensus recommendations in April 2024 to break down barriers that prevent pilots and controllers from reporting and seeking care to mitigate potential aviation safety risks.
Unfortunately, progress has been uneven, and more can be done:
Explore answers to common questions about pilot mental health, recent legislation, and efforts to improve access to care.
The Mental Health in Aviation Act, which is currently making its way through Congress, would remove barriers to care while keeping aviation safety first. Seeking help isn’t a risk—it’s a responsibility.
The Mental Health in Aviation Act is a big step toward breaking the stigma and building a system that puts both safety and pilot well-being first.
On April 1, 2024, the Mental Health and Aviation Medical Clearances Aviation Rulemaking Committee issued 24 recommendations to the FAA in response to its mandate to identify and make proposals to address barriers that prevent pilots from reporting and seeking care for mental-health issues.
Learn more about key issues and how you can support our mission.
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Two fully qualified, highly trained, and well-rested pilots on the flight deck are an airliner’s strongest safety asset.
Outdated aeromedical rules discourage pilots from seeking care for mental health. It's time to modernize the system.
