Aviation medical examiners help keep pilots and passengers safe by checking fitness to fly. They assess health risks, explain rules, and record results for the aviation authority. Their work supports training schools, airlines, and private pilots. Clear advice helps you plan, train, and fly without confusion. This guide explains what AMEs do and how your visit will run.
What is an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)?
An AME is a doctor approved to assess pilots and cabin crew for flying. They follow national rules and use set tests to judge medical fitness. They also give guidance, request reports, and apply limits when needed. Their decisions are recorded in official systems for transparency. You will meet an AME whenever you need a pilot medical.
Do I need Class 1, Class 2, or LAPL? What’s the difference?
You choose the class based on the flying you plan to do. Class 1 is for commercial pilots, Class 2 is for private pilots, and LAPL covers light aircraft pilots with simpler rules. Cabin crew have their own medical standards. Each class has a different test depth and certificate length. Pick the lowest class that still covers your planned flying.
How do I find and book an AME near me?
You can find an AME by searching the official medical register for your area. Check which classes they offer and how soon they can schedule an appointment. Ask about fees, payment, and any forms to complete before you arrive. Book early if you need an initial Class 1 or a busy time slot. Keep a note of the clinic address and the ID you must bring.
What should I bring to my appointment (and how should I prepare)?
Bring photo ID, your glasses or contact lens details, and a list of medicines. Pack any clinic letters about heart, lungs, mental health, or surgery. Avoid heavy meals and alcohol before the visit, and drink water. Wear lenses as you normally would for flying. Arrive a little early to complete forms without rushing.
What happens during a pilot medical exam?
The AME reviews your history, medications, and any past issues. They check vision, colour vision, hearing, blood pressure, and urine. You may have an ECG, lung function test, or blood test, depending on class and age. The doctor explains the findings and their implications for flying. You usually leave with a decision or clear next steps.
How much does a pilot medical cost in the UK, and who pays for it?
Costs vary by class, clinic, and any extra tests. The pilot usually pays, except where an employer covers it. Ask for the full price before you confirm the slot. Budget for repeat tests if the AME needs more data. Keep receipts for your records or employer claim.
How long does the medical take, and how long is it valid?
Most appointments take between 30 and 90 minutes. Extra tests or forms can add time. Certificate length depends on the class and your age group. The AME will tell you the expiry date and the best time to renew. Set a reminder so you do not miss the window.
Can I pass a medical if I wear glasses, have asthma, or take regular medicines?
Many pilots can pass with common conditions if they are well-controlled. Glasses or contacts are fine if your vision meets set limits. Asthma is often manageable with stable treatment and good control. Regular medicines are reviewed for side effects and potential risks. Provide proof of control so the AME can make a decision more quickly.
What health issues can delay or block a medical, and what can I do about them?
Serious heart problems, uncontrolled blood pressure, unstable diabetes, or certain mental health issues may pause a medical. Sleep apnoea and substance misuse also need careful review. Most delays clear with treatment, reports, or a short period off flying. The AME will explain the plan and the documents required. Good control and clear records usually move things forward.
What happens if the AME finds a problem? Will I get a referral?
If the AME finds an issue, they may defer, limit, or temporarily stop your medical. They will explain which tests or reports are needed to make the decision. Some cases go to an Aeromedical Centre or a specialist for review. You will get a written plan and a likely timeline. Keep in touch and send results as soon as you have them.
What is the difference between an AME and an Aeromedical Centre (AeMC)?
An AME is an individual doctor who can do most exams and renewals. An AeMC is a clinic with extra approvals for complex testing and initial Class 1s. AeMCs can run full work-ups in a single location. AMEs and AeMCs share results with the authority when needed. Your choice depends on your class, your history, and the tests required.
How are results recorded? Who sees my medical information?
Results are entered in approved systems used by the aviation authority. Your personal details are protected under privacy rules. Training schools or employers may only see status, not full medical files. You can request copies for your records. Always keep your own contact details and medical history up to date.
When should student pilots get their first medical?
Get your first medical before you spend much on training. Early checks stop surprises later, especially for vision or ECG issues. If you plan commercial training, aim for an initial Class 1 first. Private students can start with Class 2 if that fits their goals. Book early so you do not delay your first solo.
How do I keep my medical? What good habits help at renewal time?
Maintain a steady weight, good sleep, and regular exercise. Check blood pressure and follow any treatment plans. Keep glasses prescriptions up to date and carry spares when required. Do not stop medicines without medical advice. Bring updated letters to renewals to make decisions quickly.
What if I have been off flying due to illness, surgery, or pregnancy? How do I return?
Tell your AME about any time off and why it happened. Provide discharge letters and a list of medicines. The AME will advise on wait times, tests, or limits after recovery. Follow the plan and send reports as requested. You can return once risks are low and control is stable.
Do cabin crew need medicals, and how are they different from pilot medicals?
Yes, cabin crew have medical checks tailored to their role. The focus is on fitness for long duty periods, rapid pressure changes, and cabin tasks. Vision, hearing, and general health are reviewed. Rules are simpler than for pilots but still protect safety. Your airline or training school will explain the schedule.
How do AMEs support flight instructors, private owners, and commercial pilots differently?
AMEs tailor advice to the type and hours of flying you do. Instructors may need guidance on duty load and voice strain. Private owners often need tips on long gaps between flights and medication reviews. Commercial pilots may need support with sleep, jet lag, and regular testing. The aim is safe flying for every profile.
Where can I find official guidance and forms?
You can find guidance on the aviation authority’s website. It lists AMEs, AeMCs, medical rules, and forms. Many clinics link to these pages to help you prepare. Pilot groups and schools also share useful checklists. Once you’ve reviewed the official information and gathered what you need, remember that choosing a good aviation medical examiner is the next step to ensure your assessment is handled professionally and efficiently.
Book Your Pilot Medical With Aviation Medicals
Aviation Medicals offers fast appointments, clear prices, and friendly support. Our CAA-approved doctors explain each step and answer your questions in plain language. We provide on-site tests where needed and issue certificates quickly, so you can keep flying. If extra reports are required, we guide you through them and keep you updated. Book today and use the tips in this guide to arrive ready for your exam and renewal, so your path to flying stays smooth and on schedule.
Preparing for a Smooth Aviation Medical Journey
Book the right class for your flying, bring clear records, and ask questions early. Keep common conditions under control and carry proof of stability. Follow any plan if extra tests are needed before you fly again. Renew on time so training and jobs stay on track. With good preparation, an AME visit is simple and supports safe flying.