Expert: Ismar Avdic, Eng. - 1/31/2007

Question
Hey

I wanted to know what are the various medical check up one has to go through before getting a class I medical. Should i get a complete check up done from my personal physician before going in for the test? What are the key things during a medical check up?

Regards
Divyam

Answer
In USA to be able to get an Pilot license (not including Sport Pilot license) you will need to get an medical exam. For Pivate pilots you will need 3rd class of medical exam (every 24 caledar months every 36 calendar months -if you bellow age of 30), for Commercial Pilot privileges you will need 2nd class of medical (every 12 months), and for Airline Pilot Privileges you will need to have 1st class of medical exam (every 6 months). Differences between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class medical exam is really almost unnoticeable. In general exam will cover hearing, vision test, blood pressure test, EKG if you above 40, piss test and examination if you do have hernia. The exam is really fast, usually the biggest thing on those exams are paperwork involved before exam. You have to complete all medical history for your self and and some questions are reffering to family medical history. The most serious question are about DUI and convictions of DUI or controlled subtances, history of any mental illnesses and diabetes. Those are really critical questions that can denied your medical exam even you have not completed real medical exam.

Regards
Ismar