FAA Expands BasicMed Aircraft Weight Limits to 12,500 Pounds
The FAA’s expansion of BasicMed privileges is now fully in effect as of November 12, allowing pilots to fly aircraft weighing up to 12,500 pounds and certified to carry up to seven occupants. This is a significant increase from the previous aircraft weight limitation of 6,000 pounds, with certification for up to six occupants.
Since the program’s inception in 2017, more than 80,000 pilots have chosen to fly with BasicMed. This significant expansion reflects the FAA’s positive safety review of the program. The required reports to Congress show that BasicMed has no impact on safety.
The program allows pilots to be examined by either an aviation medical examiner or their own state-licensed physician every 48 months. In addition, it also requires an online medical education course every 24 months.
Source: AOPA