Pilot Mental Health: What’s Changing at the FAA? w/ Dr. Tony Reed

On this episode of More Right Rudder, Sarah Staudt, NAFI’s program development manager,  talks with Dr. Tony Reed, aviation medical examiner, healthcare executive, aircraft owner, and NAFI board member, about the latest developments in aeromedical certification and pilot mental health initiatives. They discuss recent FAA efforts to modernize the medical certification process, including expanded guidance for AMEs, updated medication policies, and changes that make it easier for pilots to seek help for common mental health concerns without automatically jeopardizing their medical certificate. The conversation also explores ADHD certification challenges, how safety management systems concepts can play a role in the future of pilot wellness, ways flight instructors can better support students, and why early communication with an AME can be beneficial for aspiring pilots. Whether you’re a student pilot, instructor, or professional aviator, this episode offers practical insight into the evolving intersection of aviation safety, medical certification, and mental health. Find the AME Guide here: https://www.faa.gov/ame_guide If you aren't already a NAFI member, join us today at https://nafimentor.org. Use code PODSAVE5 to save $5 on your new NAFI membership.