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Haven’t flown in 20 years

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Private Pilot

I haven't flown in over twenty years & read your reply regarding getting a license renewed. What are the medical restrictions for a third class medical certificate? Thanks in advance.

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1 Answers



  1. Paul on Jul 27, 2010

    You sound like the perfect LSA candidate!

    In October 2004, new rules went into effect that created a different kind of pilot certificate and a new category of aircraft. The new sport pilot certificate and the light sport aircraft (LSA) category make getting back into flying more affordable and easier for many people.

    One of the most talked-about aspects of the new sport pilot rules is the provision for pilots to fly without obtaining an FAA medical certificate. In fact, a lot of the interest in sport flying has come from individuals who hold higher pilot certificates already but have let their medicals lapse. While the rules state that meeting the requirements for a U.S. driver’s license is sufficient proof of health for most people, they do not say that anyone with a driver’s license is medically fit to fly as pilot in command. This situation might seem like splitting hairs, but the rules are very specific. If you understand nothing else about
    these new rules, understand this: If a person’s most recent application for an FAA medical was denied, or a medical was revoked or suspended, that person needs to iron out his or her medical status with the FAA before flying as PIC under the sport pilot rules. This action can be as simple as completing some additional tests or paperwork, but it must be taken before the person can fly using a driver’s license to establish medical eligibility.

    More information about the LSA certificate and training from AOPA:

    http://www.aopa.org/sportpilot/

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