Airport airside driving requires specialised medical certification ensuring the highest safety standards for vehicle operation within aircraft movement areas. Our airside medical examinations meet Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) requirements and airport safety management standards, from £70.
Airside Medical Requirements
Airside medical examinations are mandatory for anyone operating vehicles in restricted airport areas where aircraft taxi, take off, and land. The aviation industry maintains exceptionally strict health standards — airside drivers must demonstrate the physical capability, sensory function, and cognitive fitness to work safely around commercial aircraft in all conditions.
What the Examination Covers
Your airside medical includes a comprehensive cardiovascular assessment with blood pressure monitoring, neurological examination covering reflexes, coordination, and reaction times, and a detailed physical fitness evaluation. We assess your ability to work effectively in the demanding airport environment, including response to emergency situations.
Enhanced Vision and Hearing Standards
Vision testing for airside drivers is more rigorous than standard driver medicals. We assess distance and near visual acuity, peripheral vision, colour vision (critical for navigation lights and runway markings), depth perception, and night vision capability. Hearing evaluation includes audiometry testing to ensure you can clearly receive radio communications in noisy airport environments.
Managing Health Conditions
Drivers with diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, or neurological disorders require careful evaluation. Bring relevant specialist reports, medication lists, and monitoring records. We coordinate with your healthcare providers to determine fitness for airside operations while meeting CAA and airport authority requirements.
Certification and Validity
Airside medical certificates are typically valid for 1–3 years depending on age and health status. Some airports or employers require annual renewals. Drivers over 40 may need more frequent assessments. Individual airports may have additional requirements beyond the standard medical — check with your employer or airport authority.