EASA Class 1: more information

We have collected the information about the content of the aeromedical examination class 1.

Blood analysis

Based on the blood taken from your finger we determine the Hemoglobin (Hb) and glucose levels in your blood. The total cholesterol will be determined during the initial examination and at age 40. We have our own laboratory and therefore the results will immediately be available.

Urine sample analysis

Each medical examination includes an analysis of the urine you produce in our medical center to detect glucose, blood and protein. During the initial medical examination, an alcohol and drug test is also carried out. Alcohol and drugs tests are also performed during the re-examinations as required.

Visual measurement

Your eyesight is of course very important to be able to perform your function safely and efficiently. As a pilot, you will have to cope with factors that can affect your perception and interpretation. Examples include reduced oxygen tension at high altitude, night flights and fatigue. In addition, your eyesight decreases with age.
During each examination, your acuity of vision is tested at 30-50 cm, 1 metre and 6 metres. If you wear glasses, we first measure without and then with your corrective glasses or contact lenses. The distance visual acuity requirement is 0.7 (6/9) or better in each eye. Both eyes must have a visual acuity of 1.0 (6/6) or better.

Physical examination

On the basis of the digitally completed questionnaire, you will be subjected to an extensive physical examination. In addition to the mobility, coordination and balance of your body, your eyes, ears, abdomen, heart and lungs will also be examined for possible abnormalities.

Additional required examinations

Additional examination depends on your age and whether you have a medical condition. In our center we can perform the following additional examinations:
– ECG
– Spirometry
– Audiometry
– Tonometry
– Tympanometry
– Perimetry
– Lipid measurement
– Mental health check
– Alcohol and drug screening

In specific cases, if additional research is required, this is done by specialists outside our office. We work together with a number of specialists, in which case we arrange the handover.
– optometry
– ophthalmologist
– psychologist/psychiatrist

ECG (Electrocardiogram)

The ECG provides us with information about the function of your heart muscle. We work with a 12-channel digital system. We create an ECG by placing 4 electrodes, 2 on your wrists and 2 on your ankles and 6 electrodes on your chest around your heart.
The ECG is taken at the first examination and then every 5 years until the age of 30, every 2 years until the age of 40, every year until the age of 50 and in all subsequent examinations for extension or renewal.

Spirometry (pulmonary function)

The function of the lungs can be measured with a lung function test. This test will determine your lung capacity and how much air can be exhaled in the first second (peak flow). It will show if a particular condition exists.
Use the device by standing up straight, closing both teeth and lips around the mouthpiece of the device, then breathing in deeply, breathing out and breathing ahead. These measurements are taken at least 3 times to get a reliable result. This test is carried out at the initial examination and on clinical grounds afterwards.

Audiometry (hearing test)

Hearing is tested with pure tone audiometry during the initial medical examination. In the soundproof hearing cabin, you can hear sounds of different frequencies and intensities through the headphones. You must not have a hearing loss of more than 35 dB at any of the frequencies 500, 1000 or 2000 Hz or more than 50 dB at 3000 Hz in each ear. This test is done every 5 years until the age of 40 and thereafter every 2 years.

Tonometry (measurement of the intraocular pressure)

The machine will blow a “puff” of air to measure the intraocular pressure. If the pressure is too high severe damage to the retina (glaucoma) can occur. The examination will be done at your initial examination and on indication.

Tympanometry (eardrum measurement)

The mobility of your eardrum is measured with a constructive pressure in your ear canal. The eardrum must be flexible, so that you are able to ‘clear’ it. If not, further examination by the ENT specialist is required.

Perimetry (visual field research)

Each eye is tested to ensure that its visual fields are intact. You have a look into the perimeter and you indicate whether you see any movement in your visual field, this is used to determine whether there are any defects.