Introduction
For pilots, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Return to Duty (RTD) process is an important process that is used to determine a pilot’s fitness to fly again after they have had a medical issue or any other issue that may have caused them to be disqualified from flying. The RTD process has been in place since the FAA was established in 1958 and has been used to ensure that pilots are able to fly safely again following any disqualifying issues. In this publication we will be going over the history of the RTD process, how it works, and the benefits of completing the RTD process.
History
The FAA Return to Duty process was first established in 1958 when the FAA was created. At this time, the process was focused on providing pilots with the opportunity to demonstrate that they were physically and mentally fit to fly again after having a medical issue or any other issue that disqualified them from flying. Since its inception, the RTD process has undergone several updates and changes to ensure that it is current with the latest standards and regulations.
How It Works
The FAA Return to Duty process has been generated to ensure that pilots are able to safely fly again after having a medical issue or any other issue that may have disqualified them from flying. The process begins with the pilot submitting an application to the FAA. The application process includes a detailed description of the incident that disqualified the pilot from flying, as well as any previous or current medical records as well as other documents that may be needed. After the application is submitted, the FAA will review it and contact the pilot to set up an appointment for the RTD evaluation.
During the evaluation, a qualified FAA-approved aviation medical examiner (AME) will conduct a physical examination and review any relevant medical records. The AME will then submit a report to the FAA that outlines their findings and recommendations. The FAA will then review the report to determine if the pilot is fit to fly again. If the pilot is cleared to fly, the FAA will issue them a new medical certificate.
Benefits of Completing the RTD Process
There are several benefits to completing the RTD process. First, it allows pilots to prove that they are physically and mentally fit to fly again after having a medical issue or any other issue that disqualified them from flying. Additionally, the process provides pilots with the opportunity to fully demonstrate their continuing commitment to safety and the importance of following FAA regulations. Finally, completing the RTD process can help to restore a pilot’s confidence in their ability to fly safely.
Conclusion
The FAA Return to Duty (RTD) process is an important process that is used to determine a pilot’s fitness to fly again after they have had a medical issue or any other issue that may have caused them to be disqualified from flying. The RTD process has been in place since the FAA was established in 1958 and has undergone several updates and changes to ensure that it is updated with the current standards and regulations. Completing the RTD process can provide pilots with the opportunity to prove that they are physically and mentally fit to fly again, as well as demonstrate their commitment to safety and the importance of following FAA regulations.
To learn more about the FAA Return to Duty process, you can call us at 1-800-683-7745 or check out our website at www.sapevaluation.org