FAA Military Competency Practice Exam

What privileges does a second-class medical certificate permit a commercial pilot?

1. Flight only in a single-engine aircraft

2. Commercial pilot privileges until April 30 of the next year

3. Any flight activity including ATP operations

4. No privileges until renewed

The correct answer is: Commercial pilot privileges until April 30 of the next year

A second-class medical certificate is essential for pilots because it establishes their fitness to operate aircraft and engages in various aviation activities. Holding a second-class medical certificate grants a commercial pilot the privilege to act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft for hire or compensation. This includes conducting operations under part 91 and part 135, which involves charter and air taxi services. Specifically, the assertion that commercial pilot privileges are valid until April 30 of the next year is rooted in the regulations regarding medical certificates. Generally, a second-class medical certificate is valid for 12 calendar months if issued to a pilot under 40, and it allows for commercial pilot privileges during that period. If the second-class medical is not renewed, then subsequent operations under commercial privileges would not be permissible until that certificate is reissued. When considering the other options, the first option inaccurately limits the aircraft type by suggesting that the privileges are restricted only to single-engine aircraft, which is not the case since second-class medical certificate holders can operate other aircraft as long as they hold the appropriate ratings. The third option implies the ability to perform airline transport pilot activities, which is not correct, as an ATP certificate requires a higher level of medical certification. Lastly, suggesting no privileges until renewed