Class 1 Medical Renewal
 

Firstly, apologies as I know that this subject must have been covered dozens of times before. But after searches, reading the stickies and an unsuccessful attempt at Lasors, I have been unable to find a suitable answer.

I am 38 yrs old and my initial Class 1 medical expired a couple of months ago, so that I am continuing my PPL flying under class 2 privileges. I am currently doing my ATPL theory, so I don't need to have a Class 1 at the moment.

My question is, is there a period after Class 1 privileges change to Class 2 (say 6 months etc), that it becomes harder to renew and you have to go through the whole process as if it were your initial Class 1 medical?

Or, as long as the Electrocardiogram, Audiogram etc are still current, you can renew at an approved consultant at any time as opposed to starting from scratch at the CAA Gatwick?

I guess what I am trying to say is it best to renew sooner, rather than later!?

Many thanks for your help.

simple answer . . . . . . . .
 

In which case you were probably 37 when initial class 1 was issued, so its class 2 validity wil expire either 5 years from the date of medical, or on your 42nd birthday, whichever occurs earlier.
Your class 1 can be renewed at any time, by any AME, with the proviso that once it has been LAPSED for more than about four years we are supposed to check with the Belgrano before proceeding. Sometimes they will say that another initial must be done there.
The ECG and audio will fall due at the same times as they would have been due anyway - it is NEVER necessary to make a special trip just for them - only carried out at routine renewals.

This information only applies, of course, to the UK. Other AMC's and authorities may operate to different rules and procedures.

Thank you AMEandPPL.
 

Many thanks AMEandPPL for such a quick and comprehensive reply.

It is extremely helpful and much appreciated.