Learn to Fly 2026: Medical

Before you take to the skies, you’ll need the right medical certification. Whether you are a student pilot, a weekend hobbyist, or an aspiring commercial captain, your medical must match your licence and your flying goals. Without the correct medical certification your flying days will never take-off…

1. Choose your medical pathway

Not sure which one you need? Here is a breakdown of the three most common certifications for private flying in the UK.

Class 2 Medical

• Best For: UK CAA PPL Holders.
• Standard: International (ICAO).
• Validity: Worldwide (in G-reg aircraft).
• Issuer: Aeromedical Examiner (AME).
• Key Requirements: Includes an ECG and a comprehensive eye test.

LAPL Medical

• Best For: Light Aircraft Pilot Licence holders.
• Standard: UK-Specific (Lower requirement).
• Validity: UK Airspace only.
• Issuer: Your GP or an Aeromedical Examiner (AME).
• Key Requirements: GP assessment (provided there are no serious pre-existing conditions).

Pilot Medical Declaration (PMD)

• Best For: NPPL or local UK PPL flying.
• Standard: Self-declaration.
• Validity: UK Airspace only.
• Issuer: Self-issued (Completed online via the CAA).
• Key Requirements: Must meet the equivalent of the DVLA Driving Standard.

2. Detailed certification guides

The gold standard: Class 2 Medical

If you are working towards your Private Pilot Licence (PPL), this is the standard requirement.

• The exam: Takes about an hour. Includes vision, hearing, and physical organ checks (including a hernia check).
• Requirements: Since 2019, an ECG is required for your initial medical. You will also need a comprehensive eye exam from a High Street optician.
• The verdict: Most people pass with no issues. It is the most flexible licence for those wanting to fly abroad.

The flexible choice: LAPL Medical

Introduced as a simpler alternative to the Class 2, the LAPL is valid for five years (if under 40) or two years (if over 40).

• GP access: In many cases, your local GP can sign this off if you have no serious pre-existing conditions.
• Restrictions: If you have history of heart disease, neurological conditions, or certain mental health treatments, you must see an AME instead of a GP.

The simple route: Pilot Medical Declaration (PMD)

The PMD is a self-declaration for those flying aircraft under 2,000kg MTOW.

• The rule: If you are fit enough to drive a car and are not on psychiatric medication, you can generally self-declare on the CAA website.

Note: This cannot be used by student pilots (except for microlights/SSDRs) and is strictly for UK airspace.

3. Professional aspirations: Class 1

If you are planning a commercial career, you must obtain a Class 1 Medical.

Pro tip: We strongly recommend securing your Class 1 before spending money on commercial flight training. If you cannot meet the Class 1 medical standards, you will not be able to complete your professional training.

4. How to get started

Ready to book? Follow these three steps to ensure a smooth appointment.

1. Register with Cellma: You must register on the CAA Cellma System. Get verified, complete your application, and pay the CAA fee online before your appointment.
2. Gather your records: If you have a history of health issues, request a copy of your NHS medical notes to bring with you.
3. Find an examiner: Visit the CAA website to find your nearest Aeromedical Examiner (AME) or Aeromedical Centre (AeMC).

Important Post-Brexit note

Following the UK’s departure from EASA, UK-issued medicals and licenses are not automatically valid for flying EASA-registered aircraft outside of the UK. LAPL medicals are not ICAO-compliant and cannot be used to fly in EASA member states.