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7 Critical Facts About Dr. Tom Faulkner AME: The 'Pilot-Friendly' Doctor Keeping Professional Pilots In The Air

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As of December 24, 2025, the landscape of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical certification remains complex, and for professional pilots, having the right Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) is non-negotiable. Dr. Thomas “Tom” Faulkner, MD, MHA, stands out as one of the most highly-regarded Senior AMEs in the United States, particularly known for his “pilot-friendly” philosophy and deep expertise in handling challenging medical cases and special issuances. His reputation is built on decades of experience, not just as an examiner, but as a flight medicine specialist who fundamentally understands the pressures and requirements of a pilot's career.

Dr. Faulkner’s unique background—combining extensive military service, a tenure as a major airline’s internal physician, and his current role as a Senior FAA Aviation Medical Examiner—positions him as a crucial resource for airmen seeking to maintain their medical certificates. His practice, AV8RMED in Atlanta, GA, has become a destination for pilots facing the most difficult aeromedical hurdles, from complex cardiac issues to substance and alcohol monitoring under the Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) program. This article dives into the essential facts that define his career and why he is the AME pilots trust to keep them in the cockpit.

The Essential Biography of Dr. Thomas "Doc" Faulkner

Dr. Thomas Bond Faulkner, often affectionately referred to as "Doc" by the professional pilot community, possesses a distinguished and multi-faceted career that spans over three decades in the field of Flight Medicine. His extensive experience provides him with a perspective that goes far beyond a standard medical examination, enabling him to offer unparalleled aeromedical support to his patients.

  • Full Name: Thomas Bond Faulkner, MD, MHA, FACOEM
  • Primary Title: Senior FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)
  • Special Certifications: HIMS Medical Sponsor/Examiner
  • Education: Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)
  • Military Service: Served as a US Navy Flight Surgeon, gaining foundational experience in operational aerospace medicine.
  • Former Corporate Role: Medical Director at Delta Air Lines for seven years, where he served as the internal flight doctor for Delta pilots.
  • Private Practice: Founder of Medical Direction, LLC, now operating as AV8RMED, based in Atlanta, GA.
  • Professional Affiliation: Fellow of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (FACOEM).

His tenure at Delta Air Lines is particularly noteworthy, as it gave him an intimate, inside view of the professional pilot's life, the specific medical standards of a major carrier, and the need for a collaborative approach to maintaining an Airman Medical Certificate.

Why Dr. Tom Faulkner is the 'Pilot-Friendly' AME for Complex Cases

The term "pilot-friendly" is frequently used in online forums and testimonials to describe Dr. Faulkner, a high compliment in an industry where the FAA medical process can often feel adversarial. This reputation stems from his philosophy: his goal is to find a way to keep a pilot flying, not to ground them.

His deep understanding of the FAA's regulations allows him to navigate the complex pathways for medical conditions that would immediately disqualify a pilot with a less experienced AME. He is often the AME of choice for pilots with a history of Special Issuance cases, which require extensive documentation and a dedicated medical sponsor.

Dr. Faulkner's practice excels in several key areas that solidify his reputation:

  • First Class FAA Medical Exams: He conducts all classes of FAA medical exams, with a focus on the rigorous First Class requirements for commercial airline pilots.
  • HIMS Expertise: As a certified HIMS Medical Sponsor, he plays a critical role in the Human Intervention Motivation Study program, assisting pilots who are returning to work after treatment for substance or alcohol-related issues. This is a highly specialized and sensitive area of aviation medicine.
  • Color Vision Testing: He is known to offer advanced testing, such as the Farnsworth Lantern Test (FALANT), which can be a lifeline for pilots who fail the standard color vision tests.
  • Proactive Aeromedical Support: His team at AV8RMED focuses on anticipating potential aeromedical implications of specific medical conditions early, using their vast network of aviation medicine specialists to guide pilots.

Navigating the FAA Medical Labyrinth: HIMS, Special Issuances, and More

The FAA medical certification process is often described as a labyrinth, especially when a pilot develops a condition that requires a waiver or a Special Issuance. Dr. Faulkner’s practice is specifically geared toward simplifying this process for the professional pilot.

The Critical Role of a HIMS Medical Sponsor

The Human Intervention Motivation Study (HIMS) program is a collaborative effort between the FAA, air carriers, and pilot associations designed to identify, treat, and return pilots with substance abuse issues to the cockpit safely. Dr. Faulkner’s certification as a HIMS Medical Sponsor is a testament to his expertise in this high-stakes field.

In this role, he acts as the Independent Medical Sponsor, overseeing the pilot's recovery, monitoring, and providing the necessary documentation to the FAA. His involvement is crucial for a successful return-to-duty process, making him a vital entity in aviation safety and pilot career rehabilitation.

Managing Special Issuances and Complex Waivers

Many pilots require a Special Issuance (SI) for conditions like diabetes, certain cardiac issues, or mental health history. The required documentation can be overwhelming, often leading to delays or denials if not handled precisely.

Dr. Faulkner and his team specialize in preparing and submitting these complex medical packages. Their experience from working directly with a major airline gives them an edge in knowing exactly what the FAA needs to see to approve a waiver, minimizing the time a pilot spends on the ground. This expertise in Occupational Medicine and Preventive Medicine is invaluable for the commercial pilot.

The Future of Pilot Health and Dr. Faulkner's Ongoing Impact

The field of aerospace medicine is constantly evolving, with new FAA policies and medical advancements emerging regularly. Dr. Faulkner’s practice, AV8RMED, remains at the forefront by dedicating itself to staying current with all FAA News and updates. This commitment ensures that the advice and examinations provided are based on the freshest and most accurate regulatory standards.

His decades of service, from the US Navy to Delta Air Lines, and now as a leading Senior AME, have established Dr. Tom Faulkner as an indispensable figure in the professional pilot community. His focus on proactive support, comprehensive HIMS guidance, and expert handling of complex FAA medical certification cases continues to be the benchmark for a truly "pilot-friendly" AME. For airmen worldwide, "Doc" Faulkner represents the crucial difference between a grounded career and a clear flight path.

The dedication of specialists like Dr. Faulkner is what maintains the high safety standards of the aviation industry while simultaneously advocating for the careers of thousands of commercial pilots. If you are a pilot facing a challenging medical renewal, consulting with an experienced HIMS examiner and Senior AME like Dr. Faulkner may be the most important step you take to secure your future in the cockpit.

dr tom faulkner ame
dr tom faulkner ame

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