Aviation Medical Certificate - Basic Med vs Third Class

If you're a pilot, you know how important it is to stay up to date with the latest regulations and requirements for flying. One area that has seen significant changes in recent years is medical certification. In 2016, the FAA introduced a new option for pilots called Basic Med, which offers an alternative to the traditional Third Class medical certificate. While Basic Med may offer certain advantages for pilots, it's important to understand the differences between these two certifications.

What is Basic Med? 

Basic Med is a medical certification option introduced by the FAA in 2016. It allows pilots to fly non-commercially in aircraft weighing up to 6,000 pounds, at altitudes below 18,000 feet MSL, and at a maximum indicated airspeed of 250 knots. To qualify for Basic Med, pilots must:

• Hold a valid US driver's license
• Have held a medical certificate at any point after July 15, 2006
• Have completed a medical examination with a state-licensed physician within the past 48 months
• Have completed an online medical course within the past 24 months

Unlike the Third Class medical certificate, Basic Med does not require pilots to undergo a medical examination with an FAA-designated aviation medical examiner (AME).

What is the Third Class medical certificate?

The Third Class medical certificate is the traditional medical certification option for pilots. It certifies that pilots meet the minimum medical standards necessary for safe aviation operations. To obtain a Third Class medical certificate, pilots must undergo a medical examination with an FAA-designated aviation medical examiner (AME) and meet certain medical standards. The medical examination includes an assessment of the pilot's vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health. The certification is valid for either 24 or 60 months, depending on the pilot's age.

Key differences between Basic Med and the Third Class medical certificate

While Basic Med and the Third Class medical certificate both certify pilots for safe aviation operations, there are several key differences between these two certifications. Here are some of the most notable distinctions:

1. Acceptance by the TCCA
   
   One of the most significant differences between Basic Med and the Third Class medical certificate is their acceptance by the Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) authority. While the Third Class medical certificate is accepted by the TCCA, Basic Med is not. If you're planning to fly in Canada, you must have a valid Third Class medical certificate.
   
   

2. Type of flying allowed
   
   Another important difference between Basic Med and the Third Class medical certificate is the type of flying they allow. Basic Med is limited to non-commercial flying in aircraft weighing up to 6,000 pounds, at altitudes below 18,000 feet MSL, and at a maximum indicated airspeed of 250 knots. The Third Class medical certificate allows pilots to fly in both commercial and non-commercial operations, at any altitude allowed by the FAA, and at speeds greater than 250 knots.
   
   

3. Number of passengers allowed
   
   Basic Med allows pilots to carry up to five passengers, while the Third Class medical certificate allows for an unlimited number of passengers. This may be an important consideration for pilots who frequently fly with large groups or in commercial operations.
   
   

4. Medical examination requirements
   
   One of the biggest advantages of Basic Med is that it does not require pilots to undergo a medical examination with an FAA-designated AME. Instead, pilots must complete a medical examination with a state-licensed physician and provide documentation of the exam. The medical examination includes an assessment of the pilot's medical history, current medications, and any disqualifying conditions.
   
   In contrast, the Third Class medical certificate requires pilots to undergo a medical examination with an FAA-designated AME. The AME conducts a more thorough medical examination that includes an assessment of the pilot's vision, hearing, blood pressure, and overall health. The AME also reviews the pilot's medical history and any current medications. This more comprehensive examination is one reason why the Third Class medical certificate is still considered the gold standard for ensuring pilot safety and health.
   
   
5. Frequency of medical certification
   
   Basic Med requires pilots to complete a medical examination with a state-licensed physician every four years and an online medical course every two years. In contrast, the Third Class medical certificate is valid for either 24 or 60 months, depending on the pilot's age. Pilots under the age of 40 can renew their certificate every five years, while pilots over the age of 40 must renew every two years.
   
   
6. Disqualifying conditions
   
   Both Basic Med and the Third Class medical certificate have certain medical conditions and medications that may disqualify pilots from obtaining certification. However, the specific requirements and disqualifying conditions may differ between the two certifications.
   
   For example, Basic Med disqualifies pilots with certain cardiac, neurological, and psychiatric conditions, as well as those taking certain medications. The Third Class medical certificate has a more comprehensive list of disqualifying conditions, including conditions such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, and epilepsy.
   

Which certification is right for you?

The decision of whether to obtain Basic Med or the Third Class medical certificate depends on several factors, including the type of flying you plan to do, your medical history, and your personal preferences. If you plan to fly non-commercially in small aircraft and do not have any disqualifying medical conditions, Basic Med may be a good option for you. However, if you plan to fly commercially, at high altitudes, or have a history of medical conditions, you may want to consider obtaining the Third Class medical certificate.

Ultimately, both Basic Med and the Third Class medical certificate are designed to ensure pilot safety and health. The key is to carefully consider your individual circumstances and consult with an aviation medical examiner or other qualified medical professional to determine which certification is right for you.

Conclusion

Basic Med and the Third Class medical certificate are two medical certification options available to pilots. While Basic Med offers certain advantages, such as the ability to fly without a medical examination with an FAA-designated AME, it also has limitations, including its acceptance by the TCCA and its restrictions on the type of flying allowed. The Third Class medical certificate remains the gold standard for ensuring pilot safety and health, with its comprehensive medical examination and broader acceptance. As a pilot, it's important to carefully consider your individual circumstances and consult with a qualified medical professional to determine which certification is right for you.

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