WHO NEEDS A FLIGHT PHYSICAL?
FAA mandates physical and psychological standards prior to granting a
certificate for pilot-in-command as well as crew members operating an aircraft.
This includes student, commercial, certified flight instructor, and
airline transport pilots.
LOUISIANA TECH STUDENTS
Louisiana Tech students are required to have a medical certificate PRIOR to
commencing a solo flight. This certificate is issued by an Aviation
Medical Examiner. The only difference between a regular medical
certificate and the student certificate is that the back of the student medical
certificate is also the Student Pilot Certificate, which holds the solo and
solo cross-country endorsements. The Student Pilot Certificate must be signed
by the student's designated instructor pilot prior to being released for solo
flight.
TYPES OF CERTIFICATES
There are three classes of FAA medical certificates. Each level of
certification requires more restrictive standards. A pilot may apply for any
class of medical certificate, but they must possess a class of certificate
applicable with their flight status. See 14 CFR
61.23(D) for the duration of each medical certificate.
The medical standards for certification are listed in Federal Aviation
Regulation Part 67 and also on the Flight Physical website. Applicants
can request any class of medical certificate and the expiration is commensurate
with their pilot operations. Louisiana Tech encourages students who intend to
be an airline pilot apply for a First Class Medical Certificate. This
will allow for the identification of any medical deficiencies prior to
graduation and application for Commercial Pilot duties.
HOW TO OBTAIN A MEDICAL CERTIFICATE
There are approximately 5,300 Aviation Medical Examiners (AME) throughout
the world that are certified to perform FAA medical examinations. These
physicians have completed specialized training and have passed a written
examination. Certified physicians are usually listed in the phone directory, or
can be identified by contacting the FAA Flight Service District Office, and on
the internet by going to the Flight
Physical website. When the examination is completed, the AME may issue the
certificate, deny certification, or defer the determination to the FAA
Aeromedical Certification Division. A denied application can be appealed to the
FAA. Normally, the examination can be completed within one hour. It may take
longer if specialized tests must be accomplished outside the physician's
facility.
PREPARING FOR THE MEDICAL EXAMINATION
You will need a photo identification. To save time during the examination, it
is helpful if you arrive with a list of any visits to a health provider in the
previous three years, a list of all medications (prescription and
over-the-counter) and the dosages. You will be required to complete an
application, so arrive early. You will be required to indicate any moving
automobile violations and any reportable involvement in the use of alcohol or
illegal drugs. Keep in mind that any false or misleading information entered on
the application can be grounds for suspension and/or revocation of an airman
certificate.
YOUR MEDICAL HEALTH
The Aviation Medical Examiner should not replace your family physician. They
are looking for specific medical health conditions applicable to aviation.
However, if you have any symptoms, or if you are prescribed any medications,
you should consult with the AME prior to flight. Many general
practitioners may not be aware of the consequences of medicine side
effects to aviators.
