Well, pretty much... There is the Special Issuance route. I had a traumatic chest injury when I was a kid and, as a result, ended up going through the Special Issuance regime. Think "Not Cheap" for a 3rd class medical that is issued for only one year contingent on a regime of medical exams to see whether or not you are alive.cb1000rider wrote:None of it is inexpensive. Not even light sport.
One other note - if you take the FAA medical and fail for any reason, you're done.
True that!cb1000rider wrote:Anything that would disqualify you for private pilot would also disqualify you for sport pilot. If you don't take the exam, it's not an issue.
If you're on medications, you better make sure that they're on approved list now - before you go in for that physical. I can't stress this enough.
Ever been treated for depression? You're probably disqualified without some very expensive additional screening, assuming your off medication.
Have prescription sleep aids? They're not allowed.
Again, start slow. Aviation isn't less expensive than it was 6 years ago. If you're going to do it, join a club now. It'll save you money even if you discontinue your training.