Finbar Sheehy <<mailbox>>
writes:

Pilots flying under Part 103 have long enjoyed the freedom and
responsibility of being exempt from a lot of FAA regulations. Now we have a
chance to help extend some of that freedom and responsibility beyond Part 103.

EAA and AOPA have requested an exemption from the FAA Third Class Medical
requirement for pilots flying recreationally in the US. This is the last week
for comments in support of that request. If you are willing to support it,
please make a comment at
http://www.aopa.org/advocacy/120329tips-to-filing-comments-medical.html.

The waiver would allow pilots to fly in the US without a Third Class Medical if
they have a driver license, complete an online course on aeromedical factors
every two years, and then self-certify as fit to fly.

Operations would be limited to day VFR, fixed gear, 180 HP, 4 seats and 2
occupants. (AOPA and EAA hope to persuade the FAA to relax these restrictions
over time.)

The request is based on the 7-year safety record of Sport Pilot, which uses a
driver license medical and self-certification. No Sport Pilot accidents to date
have been attributed to medical factors.

Australia has just announced a similar change, allowing pilots to use an
augmented driver license medical.

If you fly powered aircraft (outside Part 103) in the US, or might like to do so
in the future, and think this exemption might make your life easier, this week
is your last chance to comment in support of it. If you're thinking about doing
it, take a minute and do it now.

Go to
http://www.aopa.org/advocacy/120329tips-to-filing-comments-medical.html to
enter your comment.