Class 1 Medical
Last updated: April 20, 2026 · Maintained by Aviatr Editorial Team
What is Class 1 Medical?
A Class 1 Medical Certificate is the strictest EASA medical required for commercial pilot operations — CPL, ATPL, and airline first-officer or captain roles. It includes detailed cardiovascular assessment, extended vision testing, annual renewal under age 60, and six-monthly renewal above age 60, and is issued only by authorised Aeromedical Centres or designated AMEs.
| Attribute | Class 1 |
|---|---|
| Validity under 40 | 12 months |
| Validity 40-60 | 12 months |
| Validity 60+ | 6 months |
| Required for | CPL, ATPL, airline operations |
How is Class 1 Medical used?
Every commercial pilot in Europe holds a valid Class 1 medical — without it, a CPL or ATPL is non-exercisable regardless of training completion. The initial Class 1 examination is extensive: detailed personal and family medical history, ECG, blood pressure, urinalysis, chest X-ray for first issue, ophthalmological exam including colour vision testing, audiometry, and a physical neurological check. Renewal exams are less comprehensive but still require ECG, vision, and an up-to-date medical history review. Common disqualifying conditions include insulin-treated diabetes, uncontrolled cardiovascular disease, active seizure disorders, and certain psychiatric conditions; many cases receive individual medical waivers after additional testing and specialist reports to the national aeromedical section. Cost for an initial Class 1 typically ranges 300-500 euro depending on country; renewals are usually 150-250 euro. Airlines will not schedule roster duties for a pilot whose Class 1 has lapsed, so proactive scheduling of the renewal exam is a standard pilot professional discipline.