Aviation medical resources and guides
Plain-English guides to UK aviation medical certification: what each certificate is for, how the classes differ, and how to get ready for your examination.
Browse our aviation medical guides
These articles explain the UK CAA medical certification process in general terms. They are informational and do not constitute individual medical advice. Fitness decisions are always made case by case against CAA standards.
What is a Class 1 medical?
A plain-English guide to the UK CAA Class 1 medical certificate, who needs one and what it involves.
Read guide GuideClass 1 vs Class 2 medical
How the two main pilot medical certificates differ, and which one your licence requires.
Read guide GuideHow to prepare for a pilot medical
Documents, forms and practical steps to help your assessment go smoothly.
Read guide GuidePilot medical certificate requirements
An overview of UK CAA medical certificate classes, validity and the examiners who issue them.
Read guideLooking for a specific examination?
If you already know which certificate you need, our service pages explain what each assessment involves, who can carry it out and how to prepare.
Not sure which medical you need?
Start with our certificate requirements guide, which summarises every UK CAA class and who it is for. You can also read the Class 1 vs Class 2 comparison or browse the full services overview.
Getting ready for an appointment?
Our preparation guide and medical preparation page walk through the documents and forms you will need, and what to expect on the day.
Ready to arrange your aviation medical?
Tell us which examination you need and we will guide you through the preparation, documents and next steps.