Medical requirements for private pilots

In the UK, pilots must have a medical certificate or declaration before flying. The type of license you seek will determine the medical requirements, including getting an assessment from an approved medical examiner. For training towards a Part-FCL PPL, a valid Class 2 medical certificate is essential, and pilots may also use a Pilot Medical Declaration under certain conditions. Pilots need to be aware of their medical fitness and maintain it throughout their flying career.

Key points

• Pilots require a medical certificate or declaration to start flight training.
• Different licenses have varying medical assessment needs, such as Class 1, Class 2, or Pilot Medical Declaration.
• Training organizations may require a medical certificate before you can begin lessons.
• If your medical status changes, you must consult a doctor and potentially withdraw your declaration.
• Pilot Medical Declarations allow some pilots to fly under certain conditions without a traditional medical certificate.

*Plain-English summary of UK Civil Aviation Authority guidance — always consult the official source (linked above) for current, authoritative requirements.*