Pilots shoulder an immense responsibility every time they step into a cockpit. Whether they’re flying for a major airline or a private charter, they’re entrusted with passenger safety, strict regulatory compliance, and real-time, high-stakes decision-making. But when a medical condition threatens a pilot’s ability to fly, the road to long-term disability (LTD) benefits can be unexpectedly turbulent.
At the Ortiz Law Firm, we help pilots navigate the complex LTD claims process—whether through a group policy provided by an employer or an individually purchased disability policy.
What Pilots Do
A pilot’s job goes far beyond flying from point A to point B. Duties often include:
- Performing detailed pre-flight inspections and checking weather conditions.
- Monitoring aircraft systems and making in-flight adjustments.
- Communicating with air traffic control and ground crews.
- Adhering to strict FAA regulations and safety protocols.
- Calmly and decisively handle emergencies and in-flight problems.
- Completing post-flight reports and maintenance logs.
Corporate or private pilots may also handle scheduling, coordinate with VIP passengers, and adapt to irregular hours or remote destinations. Regardless of the setting, flying requires intense focus, mental clarity, and precise physical coordination.
Why Long-Term Disability Claims Are So Difficult for Pilots
Long-term disability insurance is designed to provide a safety net if you are unable to work due to a medical condition. But for pilots, several challenges make the claims process especially difficult:
- “Own Occupation” Definitions: Many pilot LTD policies include specific “own occupation” language, meaning that benefits should be paid if you can’t perform the duties of a pilot—even if you could do other work. However, insurers sometimes misinterpret or dispute this definition.
- High-Income Professionals: Pilots—especially those with individual disability policies—often have large benefit amounts. This increases the insurer’s financial exposure, which can lead to heightened scrutiny or outright denials.
- Complex Medical Evaluations: Many disabling conditions affecting pilots (such as vision, heart, balance, or cognitive impairments) can be subtle or episodic. Insurance companies may claim you’re still “functionally competent” even if the FAA would not clear you to fly.
- FAA Medical Certification Issues: Being grounded by the FAA due to a failed medical exam doesn’t automatically qualify you for LTD benefits. You’ll still need to prove you’re disabled under the terms of your policy.
Tips for Filing a Strong LTD Claim as a Pilot
To improve your chances of approval, consider the following:
- Clearly Document Your Symptoms: Especially for intermittent or invisible conditions (such as migraines, anxiety, or sleep disorders), keeping detailed records of your symptoms and how they affect your ability to fly is critical.
- Get Specific Medical Support: Your doctor should understand your job duties and specifically state why you can no longer safely operate an aircraft. A general statement such as “unable to work” won’t carry much weight.
- Highlight FAA Disqualification: If you’ve lost or been denied your medical certification, include this documentation. It won’t automatically win your case, but it adds critical context.
- Clarify Your Policy Type: Group LTD policies (common for airline pilots) often have strict deadlines and limited appeals. Individual policies (common for private or corporate pilots) may allow more flexibility—but often involve more aggressive insurer tactics.
How the Ortiz Law Firm Can Help Pilots with LTD Claims
If your LTD claim has been denied, or you’re struggling with the appeal process and want to get it right the first time, the Ortiz Law Firm can help.
We understand the nuances of both group and individual disability insurance, and the unique position pilots are in when they are grounded due to illness or injury. We’ve worked with professionals across the country and are experienced in building strong claims, appealing wrongful denials, and taking cases to court when necessary.
We’ll help you gather the right evidence, coordinate with supportive medical professionals, and fight back against insurers who unfairly delay or deny benefits.
If you’re a pilot who can no longer fly due to a medical condition, and your long-term disability benefits are at risk, contact us today to schedule a free case review. Call (888) 321-8131 and let’s talk about how we can help you get the benefits you deserve.
