MEDICAL INFORMATION

What class of medical certificate must I hold and how long is it valid?

• A first-class airman medical certificate is required to exercise the privileges of an airline transport pilot certificate. A first-class airman medical certificate is valid for 12 months plus the remainder of the days in the month of examination for pilots under age 40 or for 6 months plus the remainder of the days in the month of examination for those pilots age 40 and over.
• A second-class airman medical certificate is required for commercial, non-airline duties (e.g., for crop dusters, corporate pilots) and is valid for 1 year plus the remainder of the days in the month of examination. Those exercising the privileges of a flight engineer certificate, a flight navigator certificate, or acting as air traffic control tower operator must hold a second-class airman medical certificate.
• A third-class airman medical certificate is required to exercise the privileges of a private pilot certificate, recreational pilot certificate, a flight instructor certificate, or a student pilot certificate. A third-class airman medical certificate is valid for 5 years plus the remainder of the days in the month of examination for pilots under age 40 or for 2 years plus the remainder of the days in the month of examination for those pilots age 40 and over.

Whether you have passed an FAA medical or are a Sport Pilot and do not require one, it is important that all pilots police themselves when it comes to deciding if their body is “airworthy” prior to all flights.   We know that there can be many factors which can affect our ability to safely conduct flight.  A thorough Pre-Flight goes far beyond the airplane!  This section is a reminder to pay attention to what your body is telling you.  Are you safe to fly?   Use the “I M Safe” Checklist. 

I	Illness
	Do I have an illness or any symptoms of an illness – headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, indigestion, sinus infection?
M	Medication
	Have I been taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs, especially new ones?
S	Stress
	Am I under psychological pressure? Worried about financial matters, job, health problems or family discord?
A	Alcohol
	Have I been drinking within eight hours? Within 24 hours?
F	Fatigue
	Am I tired and not adequately rested?
E	Eating
	Am I adequately nourished and hydrated?