Most pilots think about their health twice: on the day of the medical exam and the day something goes wrong. Yet health questions come up all the time between those days. Can I fly with this cold? What about the new prescription? How long after a minor procedure should I wait?
In the US, most pilots fly with an FAA medical certificate issued by an Aviation Medical Examiner, in first, second, or third class, while some fly under BasicMed. Either way, pilots are expected to judge their own fitness before every flight. The Pilot Medical Handbook is an ASA reference on the medical side of flying for pilots who want to understand those questions better.
Quick answer: The Pilot Medical Handbook (ASA-MED-HNDBK) is an ASA reference on medical and health topics for pilots, useful for student and certificated pilots who want to better understand fitness to fly and the medical side of aviation, available on Skyfarer and at Skyfarer Shop.
At a glance
- Title. Pilot Medical Handbook.
- Publisher. Aviation Supplies & Academics (ASA).
- Part number. ASA-MED-HNDBK.
- Subject. Medical and health topics for pilots.
Good to know
A book can help you understand medical topics, but it isn’t medical advice and it doesn’t decide your eligibility. For questions about a specific condition or medication and your certificate, talk to an Aviation Medical Examiner or your doctor, and use the FAA’s own guidance.
Pilot tip: Run the IMSAFE checklist before every flight: Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue, and Emotion. It takes seconds and catches many of the problems a medical exam never will.
Where to buy
Pilot Medical Handbook (ASA-MED-HNDBK) is sold by Skyfarer Shop. Find it on the Skyfarer marketplace or order directly from Skyfarer Shop. Either link shows the current price, shipping options and return terms.
Frequently asked questions
Is this medical advice?
No. It’s a reference. Ask an Aviation Medical Examiner or your doctor about your own situation.
Who is it for?
Student and certificated pilots who want to understand the medical side of flying.
What’s the part number?
ASA-MED-HNDBK.
