Guide · 7 min read
The Class 1 medical, explained without the jargon
Commercial pilots need a Class 1 medical. This guide explains what the examination involves and how to prepare calmly. It is general information, not medical advice.
What it is
A medical examination by an approved aviation medical examiner, required before a commercial student flies solo. It checks that you meet the published standard for flying, and is repeated at set intervals through your career.
What the day usually includes
A history questionnaire, eyesight and colour vision tests, hearing, a heart tracing, blood pressure, a urine test, a lung function test and a general examination. Plan for most of a day.
How to prepare
Bring your glasses or contact lenses and their prescription, any previous medical records, and a list of any medicines you take. Sleep well the night before and eat normally.
If something needs more checks
Examiners sometimes ask for further tests before they decide. This is common and not a refusal. Your examiner, not the school, makes every medical decision.
How we help
We share a list of approved examiners in Lagos, a checklist for the day, and we can move your start date if your medical takes longer.
