About your AME

About Dr. Dion Franga

Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) serving pilots near Columbia Metropolitan Airport (KCAE), Columbia, SC.

Dr. Dion Franga

Background

I earned my medical degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and trained in surgery at the Medical College of Georgia. Today I practice general and vascular surgery, and I bring the same careful, thorough approach to every pilot I see as an Aviation Medical Examiner.

Why I became an AME

My career in aviation medicine began more than 25 years ago as an Army Flight Surgeon, and I’ve continued it as a Flight Surgeon with the South Carolina National Guard. Recently I completed my own flight training, and it made me want to bring that experience to other aviators. As a pilot and a physician, I understand what’s at stake in a medical exam, and I’m here to help you stay in the air.

Helping pilots

Having worked as a flight surgeon for more than 25 years, and now as a pilot myself, I know how much your medical certificate matters to your flying. I take the time to explain each step of your exam, give you straight answers about what the FAA requires, and if something needs a closer look, I’ll help you gather the right documentation and work toward getting you back in the air.

Pilot in a flight helmet and visor beside a military jet

Credentials

My approach

Pilot first

Your goals and your flying come first in every visit.

Clear answers

Straightforward explanations of FAA standards and next steps.

A path forward

When an issue comes up, we plan the documentation together.