FAA Simplifies Regulations for Veteran Experimental Aircraft Pilots
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has enacted a notable policy shift, allowing seasoned pilots to operate multiple experimental aircraft without the formerly required practical tests. This is made possible under the new Experimental Aircraft “All Makes and Models” Program. Now, pilots who possess three Authorized Experimental Aircraft (AEA) authorizations in high-performance piston aircraft can operate additional experimental aircraft by completing only aircraft-specific ground and flight training.
“Experimental aircraft pilots have had to navigate through numerous cumbersome processes to operate additional experimental aircraft,” stated Representative Sam Graves (R-Mo.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The new program implements Section 806 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, replacing formal FAA documentation with straightforward logbook endorsements from qualified flight instructors.
Anticipated to reduce costs for both pilots and the FAA, this change also aims to increase access to experimental aircraft operations for qualified aviators.
Source: Flying Mag