Class 1 Medical: What you can expect
Dreaming of becoming a commercial pilot?
One of the first milestones on your path is the EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate. Think of it as a safety check, for you and for everyone you’ll one day be responsible for when you’re in the flight deck. The process is straightforward, and it’s designed to make sure you’re ready for the journey ahead.
Your initial examination must be completed at an approved Aero Medical Centre (AMC), and it usually takes most of the day. Once this certificate is issued, you’re officially cleared to begin your pilot training with us.
You don’t need to be “Super Human”, many pilots fly with corrected vision or other manageable conditions.
A complete look at your health
During the assessment, you’ll go through a series of tests that give a full picture of your health and fitness as a future pilot:
General health check
The doctor will listen to your heart and lungs, check reflexes, and get an overall impression of your physical condition.
You’ll also fill out a health questionnaire covering your medical history, any medications or allergies, and relevant family health information. Be open about your health history, even if you’re unsure whether something matters. The medical team’s job is to help you succeed safely, not to stop you from becoming a pilot.
Vision
Your eyesight, colour vision, and peripheral vision are checked. Many pilots use corrective lenses, so glasses or contacts are not a problem as long as they fall within the required limits.
Hearing
You’ll take a hearing test (audiogram), and your balance and sinuses may also be examined.
Blood tests
These check things like cholesterol and haemoglobin, indicators of how well your body transports oxygen, which is especially important at altitude.
Urine sample
This helps identify signs of conditions such as diabetes, and in some cases may screen for medications or substances.
Where to take the examination?
We recommend Norges Flymedisinske Senter in Oslo, to book an appointment you can check www.nfms.no.
You don’t need the certificate before applying to the school, but it must be completed before you start the course.
After your first (initial) Class 1 medical check, you will have to renew your medical certificate yearly.