If you’re training to become a commercial pilot, one of the first steps in your journey is obtaining a Class 1 Medical Certificate. This is a crucial requirement to ensure that you meet the necessary medical standards to operate an aircraft safely. At Leading Edge Aviation, we train pilots for both UK CAA and EASA licences, which means you may need to obtain one or both certifications. Here’s what to expect when you go for your medical and how to prepare.
Do You Need a Class 1 Medical?
If you’re aiming for a UK CAA licence, you’ll need a UK CAA Class 1 Medical Certificate. If you want to hold a dual UK CAA and EASA licence, you will also need an EASA Class 1 Medical, which must be issued by an approved aeromedical centre (AeMC) and assigned to the Danish authority.
Without a valid medical certificate, you won’t be able to start your commercial pilot training, so it’s important to get this sorted early in the process.
Booking Your Medical
To book your medical, you’ll need to find an approved Aeromedical Centre (AeMC). In the UK, Heathrow Medical Services and other CAA-approved centres can conduct the examination.
Before your appointment, you’ll need to:
- Register with the relevant authority’s online portal (UK CAA or EASA)
- Pay the CAA/EASA fee at least 10 days before your exam
- Complete a medical history form
- Prepare any relevant medical documents, such as optician prescriptions if you wear glasses or contact lenses
What to Expect on the Day
Your Class 1 medical will be thorough and will take around four hours to complete. Here’s what you’ll go through:
Pre-Exam Prep
Before heading to your appointment, make sure to stay hydrated (you’ll need to do a urine test), avoid caffeine, and don’t eat or drink anything (except water) for at least 20 minutes before your exam.
Medical Examination Tests
During the exam, an aviation medical examiner will conduct several tests to assess your overall health and fitness to fly:
- Medical History Review – You’ll go over any past illnesses, surgeries, or medical conditions.
- Vision & Colour Perception Tests – You’ll need to meet minimum eyesight standards, including colour vision.
- Hearing Test – Audiometry will check your ability to hear different frequencies.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – This will assess your heart function.
- Lung Function Test – Measures your breathing and lung capacity.
- Finger-Prick Blood Test – Includes haemoglobin and cholesterol testing.
- Urine Test – Checks kidney function and for potential medical concerns.
- General Physical Examination – Covers height, weight, blood pressure, and general fitness.
- Drug & Alcohol Screening – A saliva drug test and breath alcohol test may be conducted.
- Psychological Evaluation – A comprehensive mental health assessment.
If everything is in order, you’ll receive your Class 1 Medical Certificate on the same day. If further tests are needed, the medical examiner will advise you on the next steps.
How Long is Your Medical Certificate Valid?
- Under 40 years old: Valid for 12 months.
- 40+ years old (with single-pilot commercial operations): Valid for 6 months.
Top Tips for a Smooth Medical Examination
- Be Honest – Declare any medical conditions upfront to avoid complications later.
- Rest Well – Get a good night’s sleep before your exam.
- Stay Hydrated – But avoid excessive caffeine before your urine test.
- Bring Required Documents – Including ID, optician reports (if needed), and medical history paperwork.
- Relax – If you’re in good health, there’s nothing to worry about!
Final Thoughts
Getting your Class 1 Medical is a key step in your pilot training journey. While it may seem daunting, it’s a straightforward process designed to ensure your fitness to fly. If you’re training for a UK CAA or dual UK CAA & EASA licence with us at Leading Edge Aviation, getting your medical sorted early will help keep your training on track.
If you have any questions about the process, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help you every step of the way!
