The Human Intervention Motivational Study (HIMS) Program is designed to help new pilots and existing pilots receive FAA medical certification after encountering Drug, Alcohol, or other types of addiction or dependence. Each participant's program is administered and managed by a HIMS AME (Aviation Medical Examiner), who acts as the main contact point for the pilot or future pilot. The program has not yet been expanded to aviation professionals beyond pilots.
The HIMS Program, generally referred to simply as HIMS, is designed to be flexible and adapted to each individual’s needs. However, given the significant number of pilots in the program, it does tend to become somewhat formulaic and bureaucratic.
Owing to the FAA’s goal of keeping the program flexible, the agency does not publish a specific set of steps as it does for other regulatory functions. As pilots, we are used to specific guidance, procedures, and checklists. This lack of step-by-step direction adds to the stress of the program for new participants. To provide a basic idea of the program, we have listed several common elements below. Feel free to contact our firm directly for more information about the program.
When deciding whether to participate in the HIMS program, make sure to consider the following:
Not all pilots (including future pilots) who have had an alcohol/drug-related incident, arrest, charge, conviction, or dependence may need to join HIMS. In many cases, a pilot with a limited history of alcohol or drug abuse or dependence may be able to obtain a medical certificate without participating in the HIMS Program.
Many airlines, pilot unions, and pilot associations offer HIMS support to their pilots. This support can be very helpful in navigating the HIMS process, returning to work, and maintaining eligibility for flight. However, the staff and volunteers who run these support programs/services may not be the best-qualified individuals to help you evaluate whether HIMS is required for your particular situation. Always get a second option from a neutral, unbiased, and qualified 3rd party, such as an aviation attorney. Our firm offers no-charge consultations and would be happy to discuss the specifics of your situation.
Due to fairly recent program changes, the FAA has made participation in HIMS a career-long commitment. There is no practical means to exit the program while maintaining FAA medical certification.
HIMS participants may transition to BasicMed but must continue to comply with the requirements of a Special Issuance medical certificate. Individuals who do not fly commercially and/or do not plan to do so may be better served by FAA BasicMed or Light Sport Pilot.
Both BasicMed without HIMS and Light Sport Pilot cease to be options for a pilot after being denied a medical certificate or withdrawing an application for medical certification. Therefore, pilots considering FAA medical following an alcohol/drug-related issue should consult an aviation attorney before applying for FAA medical certification.
HIMS participants will need the support of a good HIMS AME. A link to the list of all current FAA-approved HIMS AMEs is available at the bottom of this page. Some HIMS AMEs are more experienced/qualified than others. For specific recommendations, contact our firm.
For more information on the HIMS Program and assistance determining whether it is appropriate for you, please contact our firm via the Contact Us button.
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