News from HQ: BasicMed Impact, Legal Strategies & Weather Briefing Essentials

Changes to BasicMed

Interesting changes are just around the corner that stand to effect pilots currently flying under BasicMed or those considering switching over to BasicMed.  On May 16^th, 2024, President Biden signed into law the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act.  Section 828 of this document details the expansion of BasicMed.  For those with similar attention spans as mine, I will summarize below.

• Increase in maximum certified takeoff weight from 6,000 pounds to now “not more than 12,500” pounds.
• Increase in number of occupants from 5 plus pilot (6 total) to 6 plus pilot (7 total).This is still dictated by the number of seats the aircraft is type certificated for.For instance, even though a PC-12 now meets the weight requirement, it does not meet the seat requirement as the PC-12 is type certificated for 9 seats.
• Additionally, DPE’s will now be authorized to administer practical test and proficiency checks under BasicMed.

These changes are scheduled to take effect 180 days after the act was signed into law or when the FAA updates it’s regulations, whichever occurs first.  180 days after May 16^th would be November 12^th 2024 for those calendar-less among us.

Scholarship Applications Opening September 9^th 2024!

The AOPA Foundation Scholarship Program offers many types of aviation scholarships. From earning a primary certificate, to career advancement, to gaining additional ratings, we have scholarships to support nearly all aviation aspirations.  Information on the application process and individual scholarships can be found, here.  Note, the 2024 program is closed but the application for 2025 will be available on September 9^th 2024 at the link above.

For a great read about legal and tax considerations effecting new and existing clubs click here and for this months Safety Section click here.

Last but not least, WE’RE HIRING!  If working to grow and maintain flying clubs around the country is something you may be interested in click here to find out more.