WASHINGTON – Commercial pilot Troy Merritt faced a dilemma when grappling with worsening anxiety and depression; the fear of potential career consequences made seeking treatment a daunting decision.
Speaking at a mental health summit in Washington, Merritt, a first officer at United Airlines, shared the common concern among pilots about the complex process and potential repercussions, including extended time away from work and uncertainty about regaining medical clearance.
This summit, convened by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), shed light on the personal struggles of pilots and aviation professionals with mental health issues.
The overarching plea was for federal regulators, particularly the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to revise rules that discourage seeking treatment due to concerns about losing medical clearance.
NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy emphasized that the safety risk lies in the silence around mental health rather than seeking help. Recognizing the need for change, the FAA announced the formation of an advisory panel to review and recommend changes to existing policies.
“We need to get folks to act earlier in the process. Early, before things get really bad,” stated Penny Giovanetti, a senior medical official at the FAA.
Acknowledging a lack of trust between the FAA and pilots, Giovanetti emphasized the agency’s commitment to dispelling myths and dismantling barriers.
The FAA has recognized that pilots often doubt the agency’s assurances that they can resume flying after a mental health diagnosis.
While the majority of pilots eventually regain certification, the lengthy process is acknowledged as a major concern that may discourage seeking treatment.
The issue gained renewed attention in October when an off-duty pilot, Joseph Emerson, faced accusations of attempting to shut down engines during a Horizon Air flight.
Emerson’s family cited his fear of losing medical certification as a reason for avoiding mental health treatment. Despite an Oregon grand jury’s decision not to indict him for attempted murder, Emerson faced multiple misdemeanor charges.
Pilots commonly express fears of the cost and time involved in regaining medical certifications, contributing to the reluctance to seek help.
Dr. William Hoffman, a clinical neurologist studying healthcare avoidance by pilots, expressed frustration at the widespread dilemma.
Despite these challenges, pilot Troy Merritt, who chose to seek treatment, encouraged others to prioritize mental health.
While recognizing the difficulties in the system, Merritt expressed no regrets about his decision and hopes to resume flying within the next six months to a year.
However, he acknowledged the privileged position of having disability insurance through his union, a support not available to all pilots.
“There are so many untold stories of pilots — pilots I know personally — who struggle with their mental health. And avoid care because they feel trapped by the system, and their options within that system,” Merritt concluded.
