A well-known Croatian aviation medicine doctor, an experienced AME examiner, and owner of a certified AeMC medical centre, Martina Elez, appears in a new video published by General Aviation Croatia, where she openly addresses a wide range of topics that often puzzle pilots and those just entering the world of flying. The video fills an important gap in the public space: the lack of reliable information on aeromedical requirements, EASA rules, and the actual obligations pilots have regarding their health.
Throughout the interview, she debunks the most common myths — starting with the widespread belief that a pilot must be “perfectly healthy”. She explains that this is a misconception and that most common medical conditions do not disqualify a candidate from obtaining a medical certificate, provided they are well-controlled and do not compromise flight safety. She also highlights the differences between medical classes for professional pilots (Class 1) and for recreational or private pilots (Class 2 and LAPL), whose requirements and examination scope differ considerably.
The video outlines what a typical pilot medical examination includes: laboratory tests, ECG, eye and ENT checks, and a mental health assessment. Mental well-being is presented as an equally important factor, with a clear message that visiting a psychologist is not a stigma but a responsible course of action. The doctor emphasises that pilots are obliged to inform their AME of any change in their health status, but this does not automatically mean a grounding — in most cases it involves temporary measures and an individual risk assessment.
The interview also addresses several practical questions: whether pilots may wear glasses, what happens if they use medication, how serious illnesses are handled, and how long a medical certificate remains valid. The doctor points out where the official criteria are defined — from EASA Part-MED to the relevant AMC/GM guidance materials — making the video a valuable resource not only for pilots, but also for instructors, aircraft owners, and everyone involved in general aviation.
Through a clear, structured, and accessible conversation, General Aviation Croatia once again reinforces its role as the leading platform in Croatia for education and the promotion of general aviation. For all the answers mentioned above, as well as practical advice from an expert’s perspective, watch the full video.
