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In the vast skies, a symbol of boundless freedom and trust, a profound injustice casts a long shadow. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the guardian of civil aviation within the United States, is embroiled in a controversy that starkly contradicts its mission of fairness, transparency, and support—especially for those who have served our nation.
A Personal Journey Echoing a Collective Cry for Justice
My name is Shannon Cruz, a military veteran with two decades of devoted service, including nine deployments as a special operations JTAC and pilot. My story, however, is not just mine but reflects the ordeal of 6,000 fellow veteran pilots ensnared by the FAA's outdated and unjust practices.
The crux of the issue lies in the FAA's handling of medical condition disclosures, with a specific focus on mental health and VA disabilities. Many veterans, me included, who failed to disclose VA disabilities on FAA medical questionnaires—often due to ambiguous questions, fear of career repercussions, or the stigma associated with PTSD—are being unjustly punished. While the majority are given non-punitive remedies to amend their oversights, a minority face the draconian measure of having their pilot certificates revoked, leading to unnecessary financial and emotional distress.
The Urgency for Immediate and Comprehensive Reform
This discriminatory policy is untenable. The punitive revocation of pilot certificates for non-disclosure issues, especially those concerning mental health, signifies a systemic failure to recognize and adapt to the modern landscape of mental health awareness and the unique challenges faced by veteran pilots.
In a recent address, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy highlighted the critical importance of addressing mental health within the aviation industry: “Everyone should feel safe speaking up, getting the mental health care they need, regardless of their profession. Aviation should be no different, and yet it is different.” This statement underscores the imperative for the FAA to heed the NTSB's guidance and the voices of airmen, ensuring that policies are conducive to a supportive and non-punitive environment.
Immediate actions required from the FAA:
Reverse Revocations Without Delay: For those unfairly penalized with certificate revocation, the FAA must reinstate all pilot certificates and type ratings immediately. The continuation of these individuals' financial and emotional suffering due to systemic flaws is indefensible.
Modernize Regulations: It's imperative that FAA regulations, some dating back to the 1950s, be updated to align with current understandings of mental health, the dynamics of modern aviation, and the sacrifices of our service members.
Shift to a Supportive Framework: Transitioning to a support-centric approach is crucial. Pilots, especially those with mental health issues, deserve clear, compassionate guidance through the medical certification process.
A Unified Call for Change
The impact extends beyond policy disputes; it affects the lives and futures of thousands of veterans and their families. The FAA's practices not only inconvenience but threaten the careers, mental health, and dignity of countless individuals.
At this pivotal moment, as part of the Pilot Mental Health Campaign, we urge the FAA, lawmakers, and the aviation community to unite in rectifying these injustices. In March, we will engage with Senators and other policymakers in Washington, D.C., to advocate for these necessary changes. Your support is vital.
We demand the FAA to:
Listen to the NTSB's guidance and the concerns of airmen, ensuring no one fears losing their job or faces financial hardship for seeking mental health care.
Provide immediate relief to those unjustly affected.
Commit to revising regulations that fail our community and our nation.
Conclusion
The journey to the skies must be founded on principles of honor, respect, and justice, not obstructed by barriers that unjustly penalize integrity and bravery. Now is the time for the FAA to act, to correct the injustices against veteran pilots and all airmen facing similar challenges. Together, we can ensure that the skies remain a domain of freedom for all who earn their wings.
Shannon Cruz
PMHC Chair (Veterans)
Beyond mere acknowledgment, we seek decisive action. Stand with us demanding fairness and respect.
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