When adding a type rating to an airline transport pilot certificate, what medical certification is required?

When adding a type rating to an airline transport pilot certificate, the regulatory requirement states that the pilot must hold at least a second-class medical certificate. However, for operations typically associated with an airline transport pilot, including those involving passenger transport or multi-crew operations, a first-class medical is often preferred or required by the airline. A current third-class medical certificate does not meet the necessary standards as it is the least stringent of the classifications and does not ensure the same level of health and capability required for the responsibilities that come with added type ratings. Holding a second-class medical certificate allows pilots to operate as private pilots with additional privileges, which is sufficient for the type rating. Therefore, the requirement is focused on ensuring that pilots maintain a level of medical fitness appropriate for the complexities of operating an aircraft with specific type ratings.