What happens if I lose my medical at American Airlines

Pilot’s Portfolio

In this focused solo episode, Timothy P. Pope, CFP®, breaks down what happens if an American Airlines pilot loses their medical and becomes unable to fly. Tim reviews the employer-provided long-term disability plan, the union-sponsored POD and PMA supplements, and how pilots can combine these for up to 90% of pre-disability income. From elimination periods to taxation choices and income offsets, this episode equips you with the knowledge to protect your financial stability if your career hits unexpected turbulence.

What You'll Learn from This Episode:

• How the American Airlines Disability Plan Works: Understand the 50% income replacement structure and how it’s calculated.
• Pre-Tax vs After-Tax Election: Learn how this annual choice impacts your benefits and tax burden.
• No Offsets for Outside Income: Discover why this is a major advantage in the AA disability plan.
• Union Benefits Breakdown: Get clarity on the Pilot Occupational Disability (POD) and Pilot Mutual Aid (PMA) supplements.
• Financial Planning Around Disability: Tips on aligning emergency funds, taxable income, and long-term strategies based on your earnings level.

Resources:
Pilot Occupational Disability Plan (POD) Chart
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Our Practice’s Website
Send Us Your Questions: [email protected]

This episode is sponsored by: Beacon Relocation

Beacon Relocation is a real estate firm helping pilots and air traffic controllers save money on their real estate transactions. By tapping into their network of over 1500 real estate agents across the country, pilots can save 20% of the real estate agent’s commission towards your closing cost on the sale or purchase of your home. Visit https://www.beaconrelocation.com/ to learn more.

Timothy P. Pope is a Certified Financial Planner™and principal owner of 360 Aviation Advisors, LLC (“360 Aviation Advisors”), a registered investment advisory firm. Investment advisory services are provided through 360 Aviation Advisors, in its separate and individual capacity as a registered investment adviser. Podcast episodes are provided through Pilot’s Portfolio, in its separate and individual capacity.

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