How Often Are Airline Pilots Tested for Sleep Disorders

Any physician can do an evaluation at this time. Physicians don’t have to be sleep medicine specialists; they are only required to follow AASM guidelines. If the evaluating physician finds that a laboratory sleep study or home study is necessary, this study needs to be completed as soon as possible. The pilot will have 90 days after (or longer if requested) to accomplish a sleep study. Pilots who are diagnosed with OSA and undergoing treatment need to send documentation of their treatment to the FAA. They are then considered for a special issuance medical certificate.