April 24 – The FAA encourages general aviation pilots to learn how to meet the BasicMed requirements
General aviation pilots can now prepare to fly under BasicMed without holding a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) medical certificate as long as they meet certain requirements. They can fly under BasicMed beginning on May 1, the effective date of the January 10 final rule. It offers pilots an alternative to the FAA’s medical qualification process for third class medical certificates, while keeping general aviation pilots safe and flying affordable. General aviation pilots may take advantage of the regulatory relief in the BasicMed rule or opt to continue to use their FAA medical certificate. Under BasicMed, a pilot will be
FAA Updates BasicMed Program
The Federal Aviation Administration updated its BasicMed regulations to allow pilots to operate larger aircraft and carry more passengers. The update includes the following changes: Increase the number of allowable passengers to six from five, and the number of occupants to seven from six. Increase the maximum aircraft takeoff weight to 12,500 lbs. from 6,000 lbs., excluding transport category helicopters. Allow pilot examiners to conduct flight checks using BasicMed in aircraft that are covered by the BasicMed rule. For more information click here. Direct questions or comments to the General Aviation and Commercial Division (AFS-800) at 9-AFS-800-Correspondence@faa.gov