From the Flight Deck features insights from the core of our aviation family – our pilots! This issue, learn more about flight medical certificates with Mike Kopp, Jet Linx Director of Operations and longtime pilot.

Pilots are not only required to be technically proficient but also medically qualified in that they must maintain a certain level of physical and mental health. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has an entire chapter dedicated to medical certification for pilots. The physical health of a pilot is checked at intervals specified by the FAA in FAR part 67. This section in the Code of Federal Regulations defines the parameters of health that a pilot must maintain in order to serve in various positions as a pilot. Vision, hearing, blood pressure, blood sugar, and heart health are the primary areas of focus in pilot medical examinations. Medical, driving, and criminal history are investigated as well during medical exams, and pilots are queried on sleep patterns, medication use, and mental health. These in-depth exams and background checks ensure pilots are medically safe, and in turn able to provide continued safe service for the passengers on their aircraft.

Pilot medical certificates are divided into three classes: First, Second, and Third. Each class of medical certificate allows for pilots to perform a different level of service.

Third Class Medical Certificates allow a pilot to exercise the privileges of a Private Pilot. Commercial Pilots require Second Class medical certification. The pilot of an aircraft in commercial operations that requires more than one pilot (when an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate is required) must maintain a First Class Medical. Jet Linx Aviation pilots are required to obtain a First Class Medical.

Airline Transport Pilots who are under the age of 40 years require a medical examination once annually. The First Class Medical also requires an EKG at the first exam after their 35th birthday, and then once a year after their 40th birthday. After the pilot’s 40th birthday, an exam is required every six months to maintain a First Class Medical certificate.

A Second Class Medical Certificate expires at the end of the 12th month following the date of their last examination regardless of age. EKGs are not required for a Second Class Medical. A Third Class Medical Certificate is valid for 24 months or 5 years depending on whether or not that pilot has reached their 40th birthday.