NE North Dakota News

At the Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences at the University of North Dakota, a key service is resuming to assist pilots who have struggled with substance abuse and mental health issues. This initiative is part of the FAA's Human Interventional Motivational Study (HIMS) program, which aids pilots in regaining their FAA medical certification.

Dr. Warren Jensen previously conducted this service on campus, providing essential evaluations and supervision for pilots as they work toward recovery and recertification.

"Every pilot needs to get medical certification to be able to fly," explained Dr. Laura Morgan, a UND HIMS aviation medical examiner. There are various classes of medical certifications needed depending on the level of flying, with most UND students requiring a second-class certificate. Those aspiring to be airline transport pilots will need a first-class certificate.

Aviation medical examiners like Dr. Morgan are responsible for conducting physical exams and issuing medical certificates based on FAA regulations. "We never deny anyone a certificate," Morgan said. "We always defer to the FAA for the agency to look over." This reflects a commitment to ensuring pilots' safety while also supporting their ambitions.

The return of the HIMS AME program to UND comes after a hiatus of five or six years following the retirement of the last HIMS AME on campus, according to Dr. Mark Christenson, another UND AME. This absence forced local and regional pilots to seek assistance elsewhere, which could be a significant burden due to the program's complexity and cost.

The program now allows local pilots to receive necessary care without traveling long distances. "If you have any kind of mental health issues, this is a path that the FAA wants you to try, in order to get as many people to fly who can do so safely," Christenson stated.

Morgan noted the program typically spans five or six years. Throughout this period, she submits progress reports to the FAA. "I never think it’s a bad thing to seek treatment," Morgan said, emphasizing that even though it goes on the pilot’s record, addressing health concerns is crucial for safe flying.

For those interested in merging careers in medicine and aviation, the role of an AME offers a unique opportunity. Individuals can apply through the FAA's website and undergo the necessary training.

The return of this program is anticipated to provide significant support not only to pilots needing medical certification but also to the broader Midwest aviation community. "We’re here to help," Morgan affirmed, underlining the dedication of the Student Health Services team to assisting pilots in their career journeys.