Inhaled Corticosteroid (Asthma)Conditionally Approved

Budesonide (Inhaler)

Brand names: Pulmicort|Last verified: 2026-09-12

FAA Pathway: CACI (Asthma): AME may issue if all CACI Asthma Worksheet criteria are met; otherwise FAA decision

Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid, a medication class the FAA lists as acceptable for asthma on the CACI Asthma Worksheet. Your AME can issue at the exam if your asthma meets every worksheet criterion, including spirometry from the last 90 days with FEV1 and FVC at or above 80% of predicted. If you don't meet every item, the FAA decides.

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Pilot Tip

Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.

Certification Details

Medication Status

Inhaled corticosteroids are acceptable medications on the FAA CACI Asthma Worksheet

Asthma Control (CACI)

Your treating physician finds your asthma stable with no changes recommended; symptoms no more than 2 days per week; rescue inhaler use no more than 2 times per week; oral steroids for flare-ups no more than 2 times per year; and in the last year, no hospital admissions and no more than 2 clinic or urgent care visits for flare-ups

Spirometry

Within the last 90 days, with FEV1 and FVC both at least 80% of predicted before bronchodilators

Required Document

A current, detailed Clinical Progress Note from your treating physician or specialist, from a visit no more than 90 days before your AME exam

If Criteria Aren't Met

If you don't meet every CACI item, the AME defers and the FAA decides, which may lead to a Special Issuance. Later renewals can follow the AASI for Asthma

Sources

FAA AME Guide, Pulmonary
FAA CACI Asthma Worksheet, updated 09/24/2025 (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/C-CACIAsthma.pdf)
FAA AME Guide — Item 35. Lungs and Chest: Asthma Disposition, updated 09/08/2026 (faa.gov/ame_guide/app_process/exam_tech/item35/amd/asthma)
FAA AASI for Asthma, updated 08/26/2026 (faa.gov/ame_guide/media/AASI_Asthma.pdf)

Last verified: 2026-09-12

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Budesonide (Inhaler) allowed for pilots?

The FAA considers Budesonide (Inhaler) (Pulmicort) to be "Conditionally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Budesonide is an inhaled corticosteroid, a medication class the FAA lists as acceptable for asthma on the CACI Asthma Worksheet. Your AME can issue at the exam if your asthma meets every worksheet criterion, including spirometry from the last 90 days with FEV1 and FVC at or above 80% of predicted. If you don't meet every item, the FAA decides.

What is the FAA status of Budesonide (Inhaler)?

Budesonide (Inhaler) has a status of "Conditionally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: CACI (Asthma): AME may issue if all CACI Asthma Worksheet criteria are met; otherwise FAA decision.

Can I fly while taking Budesonide (Inhaler)?

Flying while taking Budesonide (Inhaler) may be possible through the FAA's Special Issuance process. You will need to meet specific requirements and obtain approval before exercising pilot privileges. Consult an experienced AME for guidance.

Important Notice

The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.

The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.