so that they know that there isn't a medical issue that might be a problem, and that they can upgrade you if needed

They could just make it part of the hiring requirements. You agree to have an active 1st class medical at all times. Could save them on insurance who knows. Technically no carrier could require an FO to have a first class at all but they all seem to while hiring.

That was my point, I understand the FAR's but nearly every company requires a Class I at hire, my question centered around whether they were still allowing FO;s to let it slide into a Class II and just get one per year. the consensus is that is what the companies are doing. Thanks for the info guys.

Thay can and will require the first class to get hired...they can legally justify this because they want to hire FO's who will be able to upgrade eventually. This does make sense.

But once you're hired there's no reason to require a first class every six months for FO's. I think they usually want you to get a first class every year, but that's no big deal since it's the same exam and cost as a second...the doc just checks a different box.

In reality nobody issues (or asks for) a second class medical unless they already know they can't a hold a first. If you are in this situation you will generally be allowed to remain an FO forever (if you want to).

It should also be pointed out to the guys asking the question that the company pays for your medicals once hired. Some of them want you to have a fresh new one so you can make it the year before they have to get you another. If the company requires you to have it usually they pay for it.

Which companies pay for your medicals? I think AA/Eagle would let you get a medical from the company doctor for free (although some folks may prefer their own local "lenient" AME).

Not all companies pay for your medical. RAH is one of the few that I know that reimburses you. Even if they don't pay for it though, its still a tax deduction....