What is the role of the Federal Air Surgeon in the medical certification process?

The Federal Air Surgeon plays a crucial role in overseeing the medical certification process for pilots and air traffic controllers. One of the significant responsibilities is the issuance of Special Issuance Certificates. These certificates are granted to individuals who may have disqualifying medical conditions but can still demonstrate adequate medical fitness to fly after undergoing special evaluation. The role of the Federal Air Surgeon in this context involves making determinations based on medical history, current health assessments, and any additional information that may support the applicant's case for special issuance.

By managing this process, the Federal Air Surgeon ensures that safety standards are upheld while also providing pathways for individuals with particular medical histories to obtain certification when it is deemed appropriate. Thus, this role aligns with the broader objectives of the Federal Aviation Administration to maintain high safety standards in aviation while considering the complexities of individual medical cases.