Sleep Apnea Pilots? The FAA May Want You Tested.

Are you are licensed pilot with sleep issues? According to recent news, your body mass index (BMI) and neck circumference may come under scrutiny by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) in the near future in order to determine whether you have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Here is the full report from the Malasian Sun:

The Federal Aviation Authority in the United States has called on medical examiners to determine whether a new draft guidance relating to pilots with sleep apnea is strong enough. Aviation medical experts will be asked to determine whether pilots at risk for obstructive sleep apnea should undergo testing and treatment if necessary.

Read the rest of the article about sleep apnea pilots here. Currently, the FAA is considering new regulations that would require pilots to be tested for sleep apnea based on their BMI and their neck circumference – two strong indicators of sleep apnea. These regulations are drawing criticism from some who say that testing would be expensive or a violation of pilot privacy. On the other hand, supporters of the new regulations argue that treating sleep apnea pilots would save lives and improve the industry.

Surgical Sleep Solutions for Sleep Apnea Pilots

If you are a pilot who isn't sure if you have sleep issues, feel free to complete our self-assessment questionnaire. It's freely available, and even we won't see your results unless you want us to. If you are curious about our permanent surgical treatment for sleep apnea, please contact us today to schedule a consultation, speak with a doctor, or learn more about how you can leave your CPAP device behind and still get a restful night of sleep.