Aviation
Medical Examiners
As an aspiring pilot, you will soon encounter the need for a First-Class Airman's Medical Certificate. This certificate signifies that you meet the health and fitness standards required to safely operate an aircraft. In this journey, aviation medical examiners, or AMEs, will play a crucial role.
AMEs are medical professionals authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or a similar national aviation authority to conduct the necessary physical examinations. During your appointment, they'll assess your vision, hearing, balance, and cardiovascular health, among other things. They will also evaluate your medical history for any conditions that could potentially interfere with flight safety. Remember, it's vital to be open and honest during this examination. Depending on your goals, the First-Class Medical Certificate is often necessary for those planning to fly commercial airliners, as it represents the highest level of medical certification in aviation. Your initial issuance of this certificate marks a significant milestone on your path to becoming a professional pilot.
Proof of obtaining a First Class Airman's Medical Certificate can be submitted on the Aviation Application (not the general CWU Admission Application) for admission into the Professional Pilot Degree at Central Washington University. It is not required to have the First Class Airman's Medical Certificate at the time of submitting the application, but it must be submitted to Aviation@cwu.edu before being able to fly. If unable to provide a First Class Airman's Medical Certificate, students will not be able to participate in the flight program.
It is important that you schedule an appointment with an approved FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), not any other doctor, and it must be a First Class Medical Examination (not a Second or Third Class). Some AMEs may suggest that you only need a Third Class Medical Certificate since that is all you need to qualify for a Student Pilot Certificate. However, you should explain that you eventually want to be a commercial airline pilot and CWU requires a First Class Medical Certificate to prove that you are medically fit (at least at the time of the medical examination).
You may find out which physicians in your area are qualified to perform First Class Medical examinations by clicking on the link below. The FAA maintains a current database of medical professionals that are able to issue and renew medical certificates.
CWU News
CWU to highlight student research at next week’s SOURCE conference
May 8, 2024
by Rune Torgersen
CWU Theatre and Film to present ‘Footloose’ the next two weekends
May 8, 2024
by University Relations