The Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) takes the licensing of foreign pilots extremely seriously, including ensuring the fitness of Airline Pilots to hold a CAAC ATP Licence throughout their contract. While the China market offers opportunities, many pilots do not pursue a career with a Chinese carrier because they perceive the CAAC Medical Process, as being overly challenging.
In this article, we’ll show you how to prepare for your CAAC medical and what to expect when attending a CAAC medical.
To be well prepared for the medical examination, begin by focusing on your lifestyle, specifically exercise and nutrition, for at least three months before your trip to China. Try to exercise two to three times a week at the gym, playing sports, or walking. The idea is to get your heart rate up and your blood flowing.
You should also eat a well-balanced diet of macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are the nutrients we need in larger quantities that provide us with energy such as, fat, protein, and carbohydrate. Micronutrients are mostly vitamins and minerals. Be doing so, you’ll help keep yourself healthy, reduce the risk of diseases, and contribute to your energy levels.
Also, make sure to have regular check-ups with your doctor and ensure your blood tests are up to date. Having everything checked is important because you’ll be able to stay on top of things and also should anything arise, you can address it right away.
There are 10 parts to the CAAC medical which are spread out over 1-2 days.
Blood test
Urine test
Heart and artery check
Hearing test, sinus check, and throat check
Eye test
Blood Pressure check
Stationary and active ECG
EEG
An X-ray of the chest area and lung area
MRI and MRA
Should you feel you are not ready or well enough to attend the CAAC medical, we recommend delaying the process.
PLEASE NOTE: Consumption of alcohol at any time during the medical examination process, even during the evening, will result in immediate cessation of the medical examination with no opportunity to request another attempt.
If you currently wear glasses, bring them to the medical exam plus a spare pair of glasses and your prescription
Passport and additional passport pictures
A pen
It can be a long day so bring some healthy snacks and some water
If you had surgical operation history especially for eyes or surgery, please bring the operation report and record with you
If you are taking any medication, bring the prescription from your doctor with you
If you fail in an area that can be improved or is not a permanent issue such as having low blood sugar, you will be offered the opportunity to return on a different day to go through the process again. The timeline to reapply for the CAAC medical examination is dependent on each particular medical situation.
It’s the responsibility of the Civil Aviation Authority of China (CAAC) to conduct licensing medical examinations and issue medical certificates. So, if you do fail the medical, you will not be able to continue with any airline in China in the future.
For more information, visit the following online website pages:
Applying for jobs in China
Interview process in China
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