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Greg, Following your logic, there is no justification for allowing the ultralight pilots to fly without a FAA medical (although their record suggests that has not led to any problems) since I don't see a significant difference in your logic given an aircraft weight of a few pounds either way. Following your logic further, I should be very worried about "sharing the pattern" with Ed after he completes his Challenger. Or having him over-fly my home. I place far more importance on "self-certification" by all of us prior to each flight. My opinion is that FAA medicals should only apply to those ratings associated with flying for hire (commercial, ATP) and, for any PP inclined to get a type rating, perhaps also all aircraft over 12.5Klb. All rating levels associated with "recreational flying" (Sport, Recreational, Private) should be OK for the drivers license + self-certification route. We're simply recognizing reality here. As an ex-Naval Flight Officer with over 30 flight physicals (4-6 hours to complete), I've been to enough different AMEs across the country over many years to know that the level of exam they perform is not going to protect anyone, aviator or on the ground, from anything. I've had more thorough evaluations of health from the school nurse. That's not a reflection on the AMEs, but on the requirments and goals of a third class medical. It's a superficial screening process that occurs too seldom. Flying sub-automobile weight airplanes at highway speeds and hilltop altitudes by ourselves, or with voluntary guests, should be a recreational pastime with minimal bureaucratic baggage. On the other hand, if you were to suggest regular pyschiatric examinations.... :) Paul __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Yahoo! Health - Feel better, live better http://health.yahoo.com ================================================================== TO UNSUBSCRIBE go to: http://ercoupers.com/lists.htm
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