Is it possible to be a commercial pilot with a prosthetic left arm?

Question

If not ... why not??

Coz all you are doing is pushing buttons, using throttle and controlling the sidestick and or column . feeling in the arm should not be necessary so long as you can use and co ordinate it well

Answer 1

Okay, there's slightly more to piloting an aircraft than just pushing buttons, but that's a different topic.

That's a very good question! Most of the physical requirements have to do with eyesight, hearing, no history of mental issues or seizures, etc. Physical problems are usually handled on a case by case basis by the Medical Examiner. As long as they determine that a physical limitation does not impact your ability to safely and competently perform the role of crew member or Pilot in Command, they'll likely approve the medical cert, perhaps with a limitation on it requiring the prosthetic device be warn at all times in the cockpit. You'd be required to demonstrate various motor skills with it I imagine.

Best thing to do is to get an appointment with a Aviation Medical Examiner (for aviation, not just any doctor) to inquire about the prosthetic and how it impacts the First Class Medical Certificate (what you need for commercial work.)

Here's a link to find a AME in your area:

http://www.faa.gov/pilots/amelocator/

Edit: Something just occurred to me...you said left hand. That may prove an issue since you wouldn't have the ability to feel the control pressure exerted through the yoke ('stick'), which you hold with your left hand from the left seat. You'd definitely need to consult with an AME on this one. It might rule out a 1st Class medical (commercial pilot), but perhaps not a 3rd Class (private pilot)

Answer 2

If you haven't talked with an AME like the other guys said, do that. Here is my two cents.  The FAA gives waivers of demonstrated ability.  That pretty much means that they will give you a medical certificate for any number of medical deficiencies as long as you can prove it will not interfere with normal duties.  I haven't flown with guys with prosthetic arms but have flown with guys with prosthetic legs.

Answer 3

There are arm amputee pilots out there.

You may need to adapt some of the methods but it can be done. Look into flight schools and find a good instructor to help you.

It has and can be done.

Answer 4

Everything on this earth is possible. Why do you think  otherwise? Believe in yourself. Are you the one w/ the prosthetic arm? Have you seen the Olympic runner whose got prosthetic legs from SAfrica? You're gonna make me cry. They are letting him compete.

Good luck to your dreams. Heart, faith, strength, that's all you need.

Answer 5

This country has a law about being disabled and performing job functions.  So to answer your question you should contact the FAA Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) in Oklahoma City directly.  I have provided telephone number for you to speak directly to a live person [phone].

The web site for FAA CAMI information is http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/head...