The Pilot Lawyer Podcast

Hosted by Ison Law Firm

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Nov 2025

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About the show

The FAA medical certification process is a legal process. FAA medical certificate denials can be hard to navigate. While your AME answers to the FAA, an aviation attorney answers to you. You need an attorney to handle your FAA medical certificate issues. You need both a pilot and a lawyer on your side who understands the FAA certification process. You need an aviation attorney that focuses on FAA medical certification. You need an aviation attorney that will represent you to the fullest extent of the law. You need The Pilot Lawyer to vector you through your legal turbulence.

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60 recent

November 28, 202527 min

Conditions the FAA Won't Certify

On this episode, the Ison Brothers, along with Bailey Nagle, tackle the controversial topic of medical conditions that can ground pilots for good. Find out which diagnoses the FAA refuses to budge on and why a misdiagnosis isn't always the end of the runway. Discover surprising ways pilots have fought back and won, even when the odds seemed impossible. This unscripted chat offers stories, expert insights, and a dose of humor that makes even the regulations entertaining. If you've ever wondered where hope fits into FAA decision-making, you won't want to miss this episode. Show Highlights Learn to understand the standards that could deny your approval [01:59] Discover the conditions not referenced by the name of the regulation [04:51] How might individuals with disqualifying conditions still obtain a medical certificate? [05:36] What if you were misdiagnosed? [12:30] Discover the special issuance protocol for Type 1 Diabetes [15:45] This is when you cannot go to the NTSB [18:23] Here is why transparency in the application process is necessary [20:42] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

November 21, 202533 min

FAA Disqualifying Medications

This episode brings you straight into the tricky world of FAA medical certification, with insights from the Ison brothers and their team. Find out why finding the official list of disqualifying drugs feels like a scavenger hunt, and hear real stories of pilots who learned the hard way. Curious if your prescription might flag you with the FAA, or how to protect your license if a doctor prescribes something unexpected? Join the conversation for smart, practical tips - and a few laughs - they wish every aviator knew before filling that next prescription. This episode might save your flying career. Show Highlights Do you know which medications the FAA bans? [02:20] What should you ask your doctor before starting a new medication? [05:38] Here is how you answer question 17A on the application [08:35] Discover how an occasional use of a med can disqualify you [14:38] This is what you need to know about antidepressants [15:18] How to develop a strategy when taking a disqualifying medication? [19:01] Learn more about the FAA's Pharmacological Division's role [21:08] This week's cockpit conundrum will guide you all about 61.53 [28:20] Remember this when you are vaping with friends [31:21] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

October 24, 202537 min

Reporting a DUI to the FAA

In this episode, the Ison brothers welcome their newest attorney, Bailey Nagle, and together they share candid stories, quick-witted banter, and practical advice on navigating the confusing maze of license suspensions, legal jargon, and deadlines. Find out the truth behind the FAA's reporting rules, why a technicality could save your certificate, and what happens if you miss an important step. The team breaks down real-world scenarios and common mistakes that trip up even seasoned aviators. Whether you're new to flying or a veteran of the skies, you won't want to miss the hard-earned tips and unexpected laughs packed into this episode. Show Highlights How to report to the FAA when arrested for a motor vehicle action? [03:53] Here is your complete guide for understanding the DUI laws [07:35] Discover the variability factor within the driving records [11:36] Learn the differences between 61.15 reporting and new medical application demands [14:57] Ready for this week's cockpit conundrum about DUI convictions? [17:38] This is how you handle a DUI conviction in Florida [21:55] Can you still report to the FAA after 60 days? [29:30] Learn why a DUI conviction and license suspension require separate reports [34:44] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

August 15, 202525 min

FAA Medicals and MOSAIC

In this episode, the Ison brothers mix sharp legal advice with candid stories and a touch of self-deprecating humor as they discuss the new Mosaic rule and what it really means for pilots hoping to fly under light sport privileges. Wondering if a medical deferral ends your flying dreams, or if your driver's license is enough to keep you in the cockpit? They pull back the curtain on misconceptions and walk you through real scenarios, all while keeping things light and entertaining. Don't miss this honest, practical chat straight from a team that lives and breathes aviation law. Show Highlights Discover how MOSAIC affects your eligibility to operate [06:48] What if your most recent medical application has been suspended [09:22] Here is the link between driving licenses and the aviation world [11:01] Find out the changes that occurred after MOSAIC [16:44] Does a deferral equate to ineligibility for light sport privileges? [19:37] How do the FAA's selective responses shape legal interpretations? [20:22] This is when you should not apply for an FAA medical certificate [23:29] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

August 1, 202536 min

Appealing a FAA Medical Denial to the NTSB

In this episode, the Ison brothers pull back the curtain on the step-by-step process of challenging an FAA denial before the NTSB. You'll hear real talk about what kinds of denials can actually be appealed, when a special issuance is your best bet, and why simply missing a box on your application could put your flying future at risk. With plenty of humor and a few unexpected stories, they make even the most confusing FAA rules easy to follow. Tune in and find out how you can keep your aviation dreams alive, even when the paperwork seems stacked against you. Show Highlights This is when you don't need to go to the NTSB [05:19] Do you know how a special issuance can help you? [06:50] What would you need as proof at the NTSB? [09:32] Discover important facts about VA disability and medical application reporting [13:11] Learn about specifically vs non-specifically disqualifying conditions [20:53] What happens after you get a discretionary denial? [22:29] How is your medical file the cornerstone of your defense? [26:31] Learn the process of filing a petition with the NTSB [28:18] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

July 25, 202530 min

Preparing for the HIMS Program

In this episode, the Ison Brothers share behind-the-scenes stories from their legal travels and discuss the truth about navigating FAA medical certification. Find out what actually triggers a full-blown HIMS requirement, how a single DUI can change your career, and what to expect from the process, without the jargon or confusion. Plus, you'll get the inside scoop on surprising ways your driving record could impact your flying future. Tune in for real talk, expert advice, and a few laughs you won't want to miss. Show Highlights What to expect from the HIMS program as a pilot? [04:40] Is the HIMS program only for those with substance dependence? [07:48] Discover the four FAA criteria for substance dependence [10:38] The debate over the Impaired Control of Use being subjective [14:11] Are you getting the right advice about the HIMS program? [18:31] How can a driving history lead to a psychological disqualification? [23:55] Do you know what might trigger the FAA's scrutiny? [25:08] Find out the steps involved in the FAA's HIMS program [29:10] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

June 27, 202537 min

FAA Medical After Failing a Neuropsychological Evaluation

In today's episode, the Ison brothers discuss a failed neuropsych evaluation and what really happens after an unfavorable test result. They will share real-world stories, and even sprinkle in some unexpected humor about navigation mishaps and the Bermuda Triangle. They'll guide you through why these tests happen, what the FAA regulations say, and how a second chance might be possible. If you're a pilot facing medical hurdles or just love smart banter about aviation, this episode brings reassurance, clarity, and a few good laughs. Don't miss the practical tips and genuine encouragement you didn't know you needed! Show Highlights Discover FAA regulations about cognitive deficiencies [07:52] The different protocols for substance abuse and substance dependence [11:20] What happens if your cognitive test results fall short? [13:07] Explore the options when it comes to retesting [24:01] How can you be sure your evaluator is the right fit? [24:48] This is how the appeals process and NTSB Hearings work [25:35] How are you mentally framing your spending and reimbursements? [28:48] Learn to prepare yourself before your next psych evaluation [34:22] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

May 23, 202531 min

FAA Medical with Skin Cancer

In this episode, the Ison brothers talk about the often-overlooked topic of skin cancer and how it can impact your FAA medical certificate. With their signature humor and practical tips, they'll guide you through what the FAA really wants to see in your paperwork—and how you can avoid unnecessary delays. You'll get real-world scenarios, candid advice, and a few laughs about life both inside and outside the cockpit. Don't miss this chance to get smarter, and maybe even smile, about your next aviation medical exam! Show Highlights How do you navigate FAA Skin Cancer protocols? [06:16] Is Cancer a disqualifying condition? [07:21] What is the recurrence of cancer symptoms? [10:19] Know this before getting an AME appointment [11:53] Are you facing a medical clearance deferral? [16:22] What to do when you're off the medication? [17:34] Discover FAA's standards for melanoma cases [18:07] How can a past DUI impact a pilot? [22:25] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

May 16, 202534 min

FAA Medical with a Possession Charge

In this episode, the Ison brothers tackle the tricky world of FAA medical certifications with their trademark humor and practical advice. Listen in as they explain actual vs. constructive possession and discuss what pilots should do if they find themselves facing a drug-related charge. From viral memes to real-life legal snafus, this episode offers both laughs and clarity. Before you grab that next bottle of sauce or your flight bag, tune in to make sure you're ready for takeoff. Show Highlights Learn the difference between actual & constructive possession [05:06] These complexities of possession charges might surprise you [08:11] How to answer question 18W on the medical application? [09:27] Here is a real-life incident of marijuana possession [12:48] Discover the link between CFR 61.51 and possession charges [14:26] What if a pilot discovers a vape pen with THC in their bag? [17:59] When would they ask for a 48-hour drug test? [22:17] Find out what a substance abuse evaluation is [24:56] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/

May 9, 202527 min

Selecting a HIMS Psychiatrist

In today's episode, the Ison Brothers bring wit and real-world experience as they discuss why the FAA keeps their recommended psychiatrists off official lists and what that means for pilots. You'll hear stories of Derby day balloon mishaps, learn how to spot a truly FAA-savvy psychiatrist, and get straight answers on the new rules for in-person evaluations. Ever wondered what happens if a pilot notices something "off" in their co-pilot? This episode's cockpit conundrum tackles just that. If you're aviation-curious, you won't want to miss this candid conversation. Show Highlights How do you know if you need a HIMS AME for evaluation? [04:30] Is there a public listing for HIMS psychiatrists? [06:44] Discover the criterion for selecting a HIMS psychiatrist [08:21] Find out what the FAA will not accept as an evaluation [10:00] How can you identify the fake lists available online? [14:27] What does the FAA say about virtual & in-person evaluations? [15:14] You need to know this about reporting a pilot's mental health concerns [21:41] Learn to look at your medical history from an FAA perspective [24:!6] For more information or to get in touch with us, go to https://thepilotlawyer.com/contact/