Modernizing Medical Standards for Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus Cases
- Published
- Sep 4, 2026
- Comments close
- Oct 5, 2026
- Citation
- 91 FR 56798
- Docket
- Docket No. FAA-2026-10990, Notice No. 26-15
- Agencies
- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, Federal Aviation Administration
Notice of proposed rulemaking.
Summary
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing to change its medical‑certification rules so that pilots with non‑insulin dependent diabetes can receive a standard airman medical certificate at the time of their exam, rather than being sent through a lengthy Special Issuance review. The update reflects advances in diabetes treatment that make the condition easier to control and aims to cut down on administrative delays for qualified pilots. The rule is being issued by the Department of Transportation’s aviation branch and applies to pilots and other aircrew members who have non‑insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and wish to obtain or renew a medical certificate. By streamlining the process, the FAA hopes to reduce paperwork for both applicants and the agency while maintaining safety standards. The proposal was published on September 4, 2026, in the Federal Register (91 FR 56798). Comments must be submitted by October 5, 2026. After the comment period closes, the FAA will review the feedback, finalize the rule, and then publish a final rule that will set the effective date for the new certification pathway.
AI-generated summary — verify against the Federal Register text.
Official abstract
FAA proposes to amend its regulations to allow applicants with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus to apply for airman medical certification that may be issued at the time of their medical examination instead of requiring Special Issuance review by FAA. This action would reduce the burden associated with the process of review for Authorization for Special Issuance while recognizing that modern medical advancements have significantly improved the manageability of certain forms of diabetes.
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