Register Your Comments Today!
WASHINGTON, DC – Current FAA regulations requires all pilots to hold at least a third-class medical certificate to exercise the privileges of a private or recreational certificate. AOPA and EAA are seeking exemption to extend the driver’s license/self-certification medical standard to pilots flying “recreationally.”
AOPA and EAA chose the exemption route due to the amount of time it takes to get a rulemaking package through the entire regulatory process. The exemption will reduce a significant hurdle for entrance or continuance into general aviation while maintaining and enhancing safety.
The model for the exemption is the successful sport pilot self-certification initiative that was approved in 2004. Thanks to that initiative, the industry has tangible data that medical self-certification in this segment does not diminish aviation safety. Currently, no sport pilot accidents have been shown to be associated with medical incapacitation.
• Recreational flying would cover pilots flying a fixed-gear aircraft with four (4) seats or less, 180 hp or less, and limited to one passenger, flying during day VFR conditions. In addition, pilots would be required to take an annual recurrent, online course to teach them how to self-assess their fitness to fly.
Here is how you can help…..
The FAA has now published the request in the Federal Register as Docket FAA-2012-0350 and is looking for comments from the general aviation community by Monday, July 2, 2012. This is an important initiative and could be an important game-changing event for our industry, if we are successful.
The goal for the next 20 days is to drive as many pilots and aircraft owners to submit comments in support of the proposed exemption. We need to be heard and the FAA needs to hear that the industry is supportive of this effort. Already, the FAA has received almost 2,000 comments, but they need to hear from many more pilots and aircraft owners to emphasize the importance of this request.
Submit your comments at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2012-0350-0001 and for tips, visit http://www.aopa.org/advocacy/120329tips-to-filing-comments-medical.html.
For additional information, see AOPA’s story at http://www.aopa.org/advocacy/articles/2012/120612time-running-out-to-support-medical-exemption.html.
Additional information and updates can be found at http://www.aopa.org/advocacy/medical-certification-petition.html.
Thank you for your support!
