Pilots face a unique legal landscape—one where a single FAA action can jeopardize an entire career. From FAA enforcement investigations to medical certification issues and NTSB appeals, aviation professionals need legal representation that understands both the law and the realities of flying.
At McJannett Legal Group, we provide focused aviation law representation for pilots and aviation professionals navigating issues involving the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and FAA medical certification. Led by Chad McJannett—a licensed pilot and experienced aviation attorney—our firm brings firsthand cockpit knowledge into every legal strategy.
FAA Enforcement Defense for Pilots
FAA enforcement actions can begin suddenly and escalate quickly. A Letter of Investigation (LOI), pilot deviation report, or ramp check can lead to certificate suspension or revocation if not handled properly.
Our aviation law firm represents pilots at every stage of FAA enforcement, including:
- Letters of Investigation (LOIs)
- Emergency and non-emergency certificate actions
- Certificate suspensions and revocations
- Civil penalties and enforcement fines
- Pilot deviations and operational violations
- Enforcement proceedings under 14 CFR Part 13
We advise pilots on how to respond strategically, protect their certificates, and pursue resolution through informal conferences, negotiated settlements, or formal appeals when necessary.
NTSB Certificate Appeals and Hearings
When the FAA seeks to suspend or revoke a pilot certificate, airmen have the right to appeal to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). These proceedings are highly technical and procedurally strict.
We represent pilots before:
- NTSB Administrative Law Judges
- Full NTSB Board appeals
- Federal court review (when applicable)
Our goal is clear: retain your certificate whenever possible, or minimize career-impacting consequences through strong advocacy and procedural precision.
FAA Medical Certification & Special Issuance Representation
Medical certification issues are among the most stressful challenges pilots face. A deferral or denial can ground a pilot indefinitely without proper guidance.
Our FAA medical certification services include:
- Assistance with FAA Form 8500-8 (Application for Airman Medical Certificate)
- Responding to FAA medical deferrals or denials
- Preparing Special Issuance applications under 14 CFR §67.401
- Managing requests for additional medical documentation
We routinely assist pilots with medical issues involving:
- Heart and cardiovascular conditions
- Diabetes
- Seizure history
- Mental health diagnoses
- Use of medications including SSRIs
We work directly with Aviation Medical Examiners (AMEs) and HIMS-trained AMEs to ensure submissions are complete, compliant, and strategically presented.
HIMS Program & Substance-Related Aviation Cases
Pilots with a history of substance abuse, alcohol-related incidents, or certain mental health treatments may be required to participate in the HIMS Program (Human Intervention Motivation Study).
Our firm guides pilots through every phase of the HIMS process, including:
- Structuring FAA-compliant monitoring and recovery plans
- Coordinating with HIMS AMEs, evaluators, and treatment providers
- Preparing FAA submissions (neuropsychological evaluations, sponsor letters, treatment records)
- Advising on aftercare compliance, abstinence documentation, and flight status reporting
Our objective is to help pilots obtain Special Issuance authorization and maintain long-term compliance—so they can safely and legally continue flying.
Who We Represent
McJannett Legal Group represents aviation professionals at every stage of their career, including:
- Airline Transport Pilots (ATP)
- Commercial and private pilots
- Flight instructors (CFI / CFII)
- Student pilots and air traffic controllers
- Veterans and military pilots transitioning to civilian aviation
Whether you’re facing an FAA investigation, an NTSB appeal, or a medical certification challenge, we understand what’s at stake—and how to protect it.
Speak With an Aviation Attorney Who Is Also a Pilot
Aviation law isn’t just another practice area—it’s a highly specialized field where experience matters. Working with an aviation attorney who is also a licensed pilot provides a distinct advantage when your certificate, livelihood, and reputation are on the line.
Contact McJannett Legal Group today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your aviation career.