Pilots who meet eligibility requirements and qualify for an FAA medical exemption are limited to fly small airplanes under limited conditions without having to meet FAA medical certification requirements under this new rule.

The ruling applies to small turbine or non-turbine aircaft with no more than six seats, a maximum airspeed of 250 kias and a maximum altitude of 18,000 ft msl. The flight may be flown IFR or VFR but may not be for hire or compensation.

This final rule will allow airmen to exercise pilot in command privileges in certain aircraft without holding a current medical certificate. and is intended to ensure that pilots who complete a medical education course, meet certain medical requirements, and comply with aircraft and operating restrictions are allowed to act as pilot in command for most part 91 operations.

Effective: 1 May 2017