It’s taken around 4 months but today I received my unrestricted class 1. Thought I’d post it here so anyone else in this situation may find it via google and it may help them.

the process:

1. Start of May had initial class 1 at Gatwick with AME. All tests were normal and went well. AME asked about urticaria and I confirmed it was well controlled and I was taking Xolair/Omalizumab. He said he would require a a printout of all medications from my GP in last 5 years and also a copy of my most recent dermatology clinic letter. It took me about 2 weeks to get these and supply them.

2. After around 6 weeks I chased things up and the AME apologised for being busy but assured me he would forward what I had sent him along with his recommendation for the CAA to issue me with a class 1 to them by the end of the week. He did this and copied me in. In his recommendation he mentioned it perhaps may have an OML restriction. Clearly this wasn’t ideal as would preclude from single pilot ops etc but certainly not a major problem in terms of airline work I don’t think (some disagree) and also would allow me to start training and possibly have the OML lifted in future.

3. Around 2 weeks later a letter from the CAA medical team asking me to submit a full medical report from my consultant dermatologist. I had to pay privately here because it’s not within the scope of NHS work to do this but again around 2 weeks later I was able to submit this. Unfortunately, the report wasn’t as detailed as it could have been and around 2 weeks post submission, the CAA requested a further report answering some remaining questions they had. These centred around the symptoms being well controlled and not distracting (I’ve had no flare ups for 5 years or so) and also that I didn’t have any airway symptoms (never had!). Again, another private fee and 2 weeks later I submitted this.

4. Today issued with unrestricted class 1!!!

Throughout the process, the CAA medical team were very efficient and responsive. I would say their biggest concerns were that the condition was well controlled and that the Xolair was side effect free with normal blood results. If you’re in this situation then be prepared to get lots of reports and spend money but be reassured that you’ll get there!

Happy landings.

Haha I think this was enforced patience!

Thanks so much. Hopefully renewal will be less hassle :)