REQUIREMENTS FOR TANDEM MASTER MEDICALS - UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2024
Background
It is standard practice that Tandem Masters (TM’s) across the world are required to pass a medical test in order to hold a valid tandem rating or endorsement. The reason is obvious: A TM is responsible for the tandem student. The TM is the “pilot in command” or the “parachutist in command” and any serious health issue may put the student at risk. The fact that most tandems are done for commercial purposes with tandem students being paying customers, accentuates the need for a medical.
The international standard is for TM’s to hold a civil aviation agency medical (e.g. CASA Class 2, US FAA Class 3, Brazilian ANAC Class 3, etc.). Some years ago APF introduced the "GP Tandem Medical" as an alternative to the CASA Class 2 in order to make it easier for TM’s to get the medical done from a practical point of view. The intention was never to lower the standard of the medical or examination and was supposed to be done by the TM’s regular GP who has known the TM and his/her medical background for a period of time.
As per RS 53 par 6.3, the APF requirement is still (and has always been) a CASA "private pilot/Class 2" medical, with an alternative that may be accepted.
The GP medical became problematic: GP’s have reported TM’s to CASA who refuse to accept unfavourable results and simply visit another GP; False or forged GP medicals have been submitted; Some examinations have proven to be grossly inadequate; Numerous TM’s visit a new GP simply for the sake of obtaining the TM medical, which defeats the purpose of this alternative. As a result of the numerous problems and challenges, the GP Tandem medical is not accepted by APF anymore.
Current APF alternative: CASA Basic Class 2 Medical Certificate
The APF requirement is still a CASA Class 2 medical. However, TM’s will have the alternative to obtain a CASA Basic Class 2 medical certificate, which may be accepted by the APF (See RS 53, par 6.5 and 7.1.2).
What is this?
The Basic Class 2 is an alternative CASA medical for private pilots. It allows for fewer privileges than a standard Class 2 medical certificate but is simpler to obtain, as the examination can be done by a GP. Of course, it can be done by a DAME too.
The medical standard is exactly the same as a commercial driver standard (Austroads). Examinations are conducted by any medical practitioner who can conduct a motor vehicle driver examination.
How does it work?
To apply for any CASA medical certificate an applicant requires an ARN (Aviation Reference Number). There is no cost involved and CASA issues this number within 5 days (but can be as quick as a couple of hours).
Before logging onto the CASA Medical Records System (MRS) to commence your application for a Basic Class 2, you need to first book an appointment with a general medical practitioner or DAME. The details of this appointment are necessary to help complete the documents you need to take with you to your medical examination.
The Basic Class 2 can be valid for up to 5 years if the person is under 40 years old, and 2 years if 40 or older.
Below is a summary of the steps you will need to complete to obtain a Basic Class 2 medical certificate.
- Book appointment with medical practitioner or DAME
- Obtain CASA Aviation Reference Number (ARN)
- Log onto CASA online medical registration system (MRS)
- Confirm correct email and address
- Apply for your medical certificate
- Download and print medical questionnaire
- Take CASA medical questionnaire to appointment
- Complete required tests and medical examinations
- Log back into MRS and finalise application, pay online CASA fee of $10
- Await the issue of your medical certificate
- Submit your new medical certificate to the APF Office at [email protected]
APPLY FOR CASA ARN
CASA MRS SYSTEM
What are the costs?
The only costs involved is the GP consultation fee which may vary, and the $10 CASA fee for the Basic Class 2 medical certificate. There is no cost involved in obtaining an ARN.
MORE INFORMATION ON THE BASIC CLASS 2 MEDICAL CERTIFICATE
Charl Rootman
Safety & Training Manager
22 September 2024