Fail Class 1 - Get a Class 2?

[Okavango]

Hi,

I've booked a Class 1 medical as I'm studying for my PPL and thought it might be worthwhile knowing if there are any problems now in case I decide to go professional later. If I was to be unlucky and fail the Class 1, would I automatically get a Class 2 if I was fit for that, or would it necessitate a completely separate examination? Thanks.

[AMEandPPL]

that depends . . . . . . . . .

If I was to be unlucky and fail the Class 1, would I automatically get a Class 2 ?

That would depend ENTIRELY on the reason for failing.

In some areas class 1 standards are simply a bit stricter than class 2, so, for example, if the class 1 vision standards were just missed, the class 2 ones might be met.

If you were found to have unsafe CVD, you could still be offered a class 2 with the "daylight flights only" limitation.

There are, however, other reasons for failing a class 1 where a class 2 would also be totally out of the question. For example, any kind of epilepsy, many cardiac conditions, or insulin-dependent diabetes.

It's a good idea to go for it now, and find out. Only that way can you plan your whole future career better.

Good luck with it !

[Okavango]

Clarification

Yes - sorry that's what I meant. If I was found to be fit enough for a Class 2 during the Class 1 examination (though failed the Class 1), would I automatically be granted the Class 2 in the same process or does it require a separate appointment etc?

[AMEandPPL]

the way forward . . . . . . .

would I automatically be granted the Class 2 in the same process

The simple short answer to that particular question is probably "yes".

Having said that, and subject to the caveats already referred to above, my gut feeling is that further tests, investigations or enquiries might be suggested in order that the Class 1 (which was what you were originally after ! ) might still be possible to grant.

It's clear from a lot of what one reads on this forum that many still regard the CAA Medical Department as an aggressive, hateful and prescriptive organisation, whose sole aim is to "catch out" as many people with medical anomalies as possible, and GROUND them, forthwith and permanently.

Actually, nothing could be further from the truth. The overall aim in the hallowed portals of "The Belgrano" is to keep as many aviators aviating as possible - always subject, of course, to an acceptable level of risk, not only to the individual concerned, but to others as well.

Hopefully, you'll pass with flying colours, and this whole discussion will turn out to be academic ! ! Good luck ! !

[Galway Tower]

Well I only have 40 percent vision in my right eye, won't pass the Class 1 but I will pass the Class 2. It is a much less stringent test, Ie. Class 1 tests test Binocular vision(both eyes) but class 2 only tests monocular vision(both eyes together) So I would assume you would get a class 2 depending on how you failed the class 1