What about the medical certificate ?
The Federal Aviation Administration defines a medical certificate as an “acceptable evidence of physical fitness on a form prescribed by the Administrator” giving the privilege to airman to operate an airplane. There are 3 different classes, called first, second and third. Each one have specific use. The first class, valid for a year, or 6 months if older than 39 at the time of the examination, is required to fly as an airline transport pilot. The second class is valid for one year and is necessary for a pilot to operate a commercial airplane, including sightseeing tours or corporate and charter flights operating under Part 91 or Part 135. The last one is the third class and is required to exercise the privileges of a private pilot certificate, a flight instructor certificate or a student pilot certificate. It is valid for 5 year, or 24 months if older than 39 at the time of the examination. As a student pilot you will get a yellow document valid as your medical certificate as well as your student certificate. With this in your hand you will now have the right to step in an airplane and take lessons to obtain your private pilot certificate. In order to receive it, you will have to make an appointment with an Aviation Medical Examiner and undergo a thorough physical examination including your medical history, your eyes and your coordination. Once the doctor has established that you meet the requirements, he will issue the certificate. I would suggest you get a first class as you will need it later in your career. Even though you won’t need it anytime soon, it will be a good way to know whether or not some deficiencies noted by the physician might stop you from reaching your goal as an airline pilot. You can expect to spend anywhere between $70 and $150 for each visit. If for any reasons you are denied the medical certificate, you have 30 days to apply for reconsideration to the medical certification division at the FAA, in Oklahoma.
To find an Aviation Medical Examiner click here For the synopsis of medical standards for each class, click here For specific medical certification questions and answers, click here Previous : Type of financing / Next : Non U.S. citizens |