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The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 67.311

Cardiovascular

Read the official rule

To qualify for a third-class medical certificate, you cannot have an established medical history or clinical diagnosis of several serious cardiovascular conditions. These disqualifying conditions include:

  • Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
  • Angina (chest pain from reduced blood flow to the heart)
  • Coronary heart disease that required treatment, or if untreated, caused symptoms or was clinically significant
  • Cardiac valve replacement
  • Permanent pacemaker implantation
  • Heart transplant

This regulation sets the baseline cardiovascular health standard for third-class medicals, which cover private and recreational pilots. If you have one of these conditions, you won't automatically qualify under the standard process. However, the FAA may still issue a special issuance medical certificate if you can demonstrate that your condition is sufficiently managed and you can safely operate an aircraft. Your Aviation Medical Examiner will evaluate your specific situation during your medical examination.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.