FDX - any reason to get 1st class as an FO? - Airline Pilot Central Forums

darby78 , 01-18-2010 05:43 AM

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So I need to get my faa medical this month and I've been in the habit of getting a first class every year. However, this year I'm due for an EKG (35), I don't expect any problems - but can I avoid the headache/exposure by just getting the 2nd class?

I can't find anywhere in the contract or on the website/FCIFs that would require the 1st class for a FO, but maybe I missed it? Thanks for any input.

d

FDX28 , 01-18-2010 05:49 AM

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I think you're required if you're a MD-11 or 777 F/o.

here's a link from training -

https://pilot.fedex.com/training/gen...ere_letter.pdf

2cylinderdriver , 01-18-2010 06:03 AM

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Quote:

Originally Posted by darby78

check the FOM Para. 2.121

FedExBusBoy , 01-18-2010 06:40 AM

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Get the 1st class.........

Rather find out sooner than later if you have any health issues.........

just my 2 c

RAC396 , 01-18-2010 07:11 AM

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Quote:

Originally Posted by darby78

Once you have a 1st and have a medical prob, it is easer to get it back, than to have to upgrade to a 1st with the same prob.

yeah right , 01-18-2010 07:24 AM

On Reserve

Quote:

Originally Posted by darby78

I've been told to always get the first class. Unless something has changed recently, if you need a waiver and only hold a second class then you will be stuck with a second class without the opportunity to upgrade to the first class as you can't upgrade with a waiver (no chance at Captain).

If you already hold a first class and need a waiver then you are set.

Medical requirements change pretty regularly so confirm this with your doc.

HIFLYR , 01-18-2010 07:51 AM

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Most ICAO countries require a 1st Class for a F/O.

InFO
Information for Operators
U.S. Department InFO 07014
of Transportation DATE: 07/27/2007
Federal Aviation

Administration

Flight Standards Service

Washington, DC

Information for Operators (InFO)

An InFO contains valuable information for operators that should help them meet certain administrative, regulatory, or operational requirements with relatively low urgency or impact on safety.

Subject:

First-Class Medical Certificate Requirements for SICs in Flag or Supplemental Operations

Purpose:

This InFO reminds managers and pilots of air carriers operating under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 121 that second-in-command (SIC) medical requirements are specific to operations requiring three or more pilots, typically flights that are long in duration, such as those between the United States and Europe.

Background:

Recently, a U.S. commercial flight scheduled to operate from Paris, France to a U.S. destination was ramp checked by French civil aviation authorities. The ramp check revealed that the SIC held a second-class medical certificate. France requires pilots operating in its airspace to meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) licensing standards. ICAO licensing standards specify that an SIC must hold a first-class medical certificate in this case. The flight was permitted to depart with passengers onboard after another SIC with a first-class medical certificate was located. According to French civil aviation authorities, only a non-revenue flight could have been operated if the SIC with a first-class medical certificate had not been located.

U.S. Regulations.

In domestic operations with two pilot crews an SIC is required to hold at least a commercial license. Title 14 CFR part 61, § 61.23(a)(2) requires the SIC to hold a second-class medical certificate. However, in flag and supplemental operations part 121, § 121.437 requires an SIC to hold an airline transport pilot certificate when assigned to crews of three or more pilots, and § 61.23(a)(1) requires the SIC to hold a first-class medical certificate.

Foreign Regulations.

U.S. pilots flying in foreign airspace are required to meet the licensing requirements of the respective country. Many European countries specifically require compliance with ICAO licensing standards which specify that an SIC must hold a first-class medical certificate for international air transportation. Aviation authorities of a foreign country could take action against both the individual and the air carrier if a pilot fails to meet its licensing requirements.

Recommended Action:

Directors of operations, other managers, and pilots should be aware that it is their responsibility to comply with all applicable pilot licensing requirements, including those of the United States and foreign countries in which they operate.
Approved by: AFS-200

Lucky7 , 01-18-2010 07:53 AM

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I set up an appointment with my regular doc to get an ekg a week before the FAA med to double check before I went in for the official one. Doc looked at it about 3 secs. said everything fine. I brought up the question with the FAA doc and he recommended not downgrading to a second because it's hard to get back up to the first if you have a problem.

bleedairpacks , 01-18-2010 08:06 AM

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I would see your private physician before the medical if you have any concerns.

Good luck.

#10

MD10PLT , 01-18-2010 12:27 PM

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When you guys say get a 1st class medical, are you saying get a 1st class and then let it drop to a 2nd. Or are you saying keep your 1st class current by going in every 6 months.