ECG (Electrocardiogram)

An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the electrical activity of your heart. It can show irregular heart rhythms, problems with how electrical signals travel through the heart, enlargement of the heart, signs of a past heart injury, and reduced blood or oxygen supply to the heart muscle (ischemia).

 

The test is quick and painless. Small sticky pads (leads) are placed on your chest, arms and legs. Wires from the pads send the signals wirelessly to the ECG machine, which prints a tracing from each lead. Each lead looks at a different part of the heart. The ECG is done in the exam room during your medical, so there is no need to book a separate lab visit. A female nurse sets up the ECG for all female applicants.

 

Not every pilot needs an ECG. It depends on your category, your age, your medical history and whether this is your first application. The requirements chart on the Certification page shows when one is needed.

 

If you have a previous ECG, please bring a copy. Comparing tracings helps show whether any findings are old or new.

 

There is a separate fee for the ECG and its interpretation.