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Medical cannabis and your CAA medical certificate
CAA guidance is unusually direct: cannabis and cannabidiol use, including prescribed CBD products, is not compatible with medical certification. Check the position before starting treatment—not after flying privileges are affected.
The published CAA position.
The CAA’s current pilot medication and mental-health guidance says this includes CBD products whether prescribed or not. The guidance does not describe a driving-style statutory defence or a sport-style TUE route.
Who needs to check?
The issue is relevant to applicants and holders of pilot medical certificates. Air traffic controllers operate under a separate CAA medical-certification framework and should obtain role-specific advice from the CAA-authorised medical examiner responsible for their certificate.
Why “CBD only” does not change the published rule.
The CAA notes difficulties isolating CBD from psychoactive compounds, possible THC contamination and positive drug-screening risk. Its stated certification position applies even where the CBD product is prescribed.
Practical sequence before starting.
- Identify the exact aviation licence, medical class and duties affected.
- Speak to your aeromedical examiner and treating specialist before the first use.
- Ask what medical reports and notification steps are required.
- Do not stop or alter an existing prescription without the responsible prescriber.
- Do not exercise aviation privileges unless your certificate and fitness position permit it.
Primary sources
Independent review
Qualified reviewer?
GreenGuruAI welcomes source-specific corrections and independent review from UK clinicians, pharmacists and solicitors with relevant expertise. Review being invited does not mean review is complete or imminent.
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