AboutColin Woehrle Expertise Answer questions regarding FARs, VFR and IFR flight operations, the national
airspace system (NAS), communications with ATC, physiology, etc. I answer sincere questions
for aviation enthusiasts and flight students. If I can`t answer your question, I`ll try
my best to point you in the right direction.
(I do not answer questions asking how much it costs to fly from one place to another).
Experience Pilot for a leading west-coast regional airline. Ratings and certificates include: Flight Instructor (CFI, CFII), Commercial Pilot, Instrument, Single Engine Land/Multi-engine Land Airplane
Question I am 14 years of age and I am aiming to get a private pilot's license when I reach the minimum age (16 I think) to fly solo. I have taken an introductory flight and really enjoyed it. I have low blood pressure and I was wondering if this may be a problem when I come to have my medical?
Thank You
Answer Hello Nathan,
I believe that high blood pressure (hypertension) is more of a concern when it comes to aviation medical exams, but that's not to say low pressure isn't. If I were you I would call one of your local Aviation Medical Examiners (AME's) and ask them what you should do. They will want to know whether you are taking medication and for how long you've had this condition. It's better to find out now what they don't want to see before you go in for an exam, because if you fail the exam, it gets reported to the FAA. However, if the examiner tells you "no way" over the phone then there is always the Sport Pilot Certificate you can obtain without a medical, but from what I understand, you can't get one of those if you've ever failed a medical. It's kind of a double-sided sword. If you need help locating a medical examiner in your area, I'll be glad to help.
