Pilot Journey Forums

First off Hello. I am now in the process of finding a flight school but stumbled into a little problem. Which brings me to my question. Is there anyone in this forum that has Type 2 Diabetes and if so how did you get your medical certification. I know that the FAA is against it but I am also aware that you can get a medical certification. My ultimate goal is to fly for DHL but or Fed Ex. I am just hoping that a DNA problem does not ground me forever. I'm looking forward to being an active member on the forum and hope to learn a lot.

Hi Nasek718 and welcome to the forums!
 
Thanks for the great question!  I get that question all the time via email and I am glad someone asked that in the forums!
 
Good News.  You can fly!  
 
I have worked with many students over the years that had type 2 diabetes and the only differance is that they need to get medicals every year and they need an A1C below 7.  
 
The only bad news is that exercise, diet and PERHAPS medication is required.  Since it takes 3 months to really get a good A1C reading you need to plan your next trip to the doctor.
 
Question: Have you gone and tried to get your aviation medical yet?  If not, don't go there first.  Work with your regular doctor first.  If you already went to the aviation medical doctor, that's ok but it just takes a little longer to get your medical AFTER you have been denied one.
 
Feel free to contact me privately (http://pilotjourney.com/index.php?option=com_akoforms&func=showform&formid=6&Itemid=69) if you wish.
 
Thanks for asking the question, this will help a great many future pilots!:)

Thanks for replying. I have not tried to get a medical done yet because the last A1C that I had done was 10.2. So I've been excercising, changed my diet and reading any and everything w/ wings. So that when it does hit the magic 7..... I'll be ready. Again thanks and I look forward to being a member.

I'm a type I diabetic and I was told last year that I could get my license if I had good control.  I just couldn't be hired to pilot anyone, I guess I could do it for free though.  I don't believe that I will ever be able to do anything commercially though. 

Hi  sundayblues and welcome to Pilot Journey  :)

I have two friends, one at Southest and one at SkyWest both type 2 so it can happen.  Plus don't forget the being a flight instructor is also very cool.

Welcome, we are glad you are here!

I'm an aviation attorney and I can tell you that the FAA has become much more lenient on this topic in recent years. Get a good AME and they can guide you through the process. If you have any trouble with Aeromedical at the FAA - the best idea is to subscribe to the AOPA Legal Service Plan and allow them to help you with the problem. You should be able to get your medical back as long as it is under control.

Best of luck.