If you are considering becoming a pilot in the UK, one of the key requirements you will need to meet is acquiring a pilot medical certificate.
The pilot medical assessments are designed to ensure that pilots are fit and healthy enough to safely operate an aircraft.
Below, we have covered everything you need to know about pilot medical requirements in the UK.
Who Needs a Pilot Medical Certificate?
If you plan on operating an aircraft in the UK, you will need to hold a valid pilot medical certificate.
This includes private pilots, commercial pilots, as well as student pilots. The only exception to this rule is if you’re operating a microlight or balloon with a maximum take-off weight of 70 kg or less and no more than two seats.
Types of Pilot Medical Certificates
In the UK, there are three types of pilot medical certificates:
- Class 1 Medical Certificate – This is the highest level of pilot medical certification and is required for commercial pilots, airline transport pilots, and some private pilots.
- Class 2 Medical Certificate – This is a lower level of medical certification required for most private pilots and student pilots.
- LAPL Medical Certificate – This certificate is only required for pilots flying light aircraft with a maximum take-off weight of 2,000 kg or less and no more than three passengers.
Medical Exam Requirements
To obtain a pilot medical certificate, you will need to undergo a medical exam with a UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) approved medical examiner.
The medical exam will include a thorough physical examination, vision and hearing tests, and a review of your medical history.
The medical exam requirements vary depending on the type of medical certificate you are applying for.
Class 1 Medical Certificate Exam Requirements
If you are applying for a Class 1 Medical Certificate, you will need to undergo a comprehensive medical exam that includes the following:
- A general physical examination
- Vision test – you must have a visual acuity of at least 6/6 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses
- Audiometry test – you must have a normal hearing threshold of 35dB or better in each ear
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) – You must have a normal ECG reading
- Spirometry test – you must have a forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of at least 70% of the predicted value
- Blood pressure – You must have a blood pressure reading within acceptable limits
- Urinalysis – This is a test to check for any abnormal levels of protein, glucose or other substances in your urine
Class 2 Medical Certificate Exam Requirements
If you are applying for a Class 2 Medical Certificate, you will need to undergo a less comprehensive medical exam than the Class 1 exam.
The Class 2 medical exam requirements include the following:
- A general physical examination
- Vision test – you must have a visual acuity of at least 6/9 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses
- Audiometry test – you must have a normal hearing threshold of 35dB or better in each ear
- Blood pressure – You must have a blood pressure reading within acceptable limits
LAPL Medical Certificate Exam Requirements
If you are applying for a LAPL Medical Certificate, you will need to undergo a medical exam that includes the following:
- A general physical examination
- Vision test – you must have a visual acuity of at least 6/9 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses
- Audiometry test – you must have a normal hearing threshold of 35dB or better in each ear
- Blood pressure – You must have a blood pressure reading within acceptable limits
- A urine test – This is a test to check for any abnormal levels of protein, glucose, or other substances in your urine
Duration and Renewal of Pilot Medical Certificates
The duration of a pilot medical certificate varies depending on the type of certificate you hold.
A Class 1 Medical Certificate is valid for 12 months for pilots under the age of 40, and 6 months for pilots over the age of 40.
A Class 2 Medical Certificate is valid for 60 months for pilots under the age of 40, and 24 months for pilots over the age of 40.
A LAPL Medical Certificate is valid for 60 months for pilots under the age of 40, and 24 months for pilots over the age of 40.
To renew your pilot medical certificate, you will need to undergo another medical exam with an approved medical examiner.
The requirements for renewal are similar to those for initial certification but with a few additional tests for pilots over the age of 50.
What Happens if You Fail the Medical Exam?
If you fail your medical exam, you will have the opportunity to appeal the decision.
You will need to provide additional medical evidence to support your case, and the appeal process can take several weeks or even months.
If you are unable to obtain a pilot medical certificate, you will not be able to operate an aircraft in the UK.
However, there are still opportunities to be involved in the aviation industry, such as becoming an air traffic controller or working as a ground crew member.
Obtaining a pilot medical certificate is an important step in becoming a pilot in the UK.
The medical exam requirements vary depending on the type of certificate you are applying for, but all pilots must meet certain physical and medical criteria to ensure they are fit and healthy enough to operate an aircraft.
It is important to keep your medical certificate up-to-date and undergo regular medical exams to ensure you are still fit to fly.
If you have any questions or concerns about the medical exam requirements, consult with an approved medical examiner or the UK CAA.
