class1 / 2 renewal

[matt999]

Hi everyone,

I've had my trial flight, been studying the books and getting near starting flying in earnest, but I have a question re the medical... I'll be predominantly a private pilot, but would like to leave the door open for the possibility of being able to do a little commercial flying at some stage in the future.

If I get my class 1 at Gatwick, will it also 'count' as a class 2 after 6 months (I'm 45), or will I have to keep renewing it as a class 1?

If I only renew my medical as a class 2, how long have I got before I can no longer renew the class 1 and have to re-take the initial exam at Gatwick again?

Thanks,
Matthew

[FlyingStone]

Yes, an expired Class I medical certificate is valid as Class II for as long as stated on the licence itself.

As for renewing an expired Class I you'll have to wait from someone familiar with UK FCL-3 - generally it's 5 years...

[Flyin'Dutch']

Correct on both counts.