FAA Simplifies Authorization Process for Experienced Experimental Aircraft Pilots
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has introduced a significant policy change that eliminates practical test requirements for experienced experimental aircraft pilots, effective immediately. Under the newly launched “Experimental Aircraft All Makes and Models Program”, pilots with three Authorized Experimental Aircraft (AEA) authorizations in high-performance piston aircraft can now operate additional experimental aircraft through simple logbook endorsements, bypassing the need for formal FAA documentation.
This program is an implementation of Section 806 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024. This act was mandated by Congress with the aim of reducing the regulatory burden on experienced pilots. “Experimental aircraft pilots have had to jump through many cumbersome hoops in order to operate additional experimental aircraft,” said Representative Sam Graves (R-Mo.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This commonsense change will reduce costs for the agency and allow more pilots to enjoy their freedom to fly.”
In the past, pilots were required to submit formal applications and complete practical tests for each additional experimental aircraft they wished to fly. The new process simplifies this by only requiring aircraft-specific ground and flight training, followed by an instructor’s logbook endorsement certifying proficiency. This change signifies a major shift in how the FAA manages experimental aircraft operations, streamlining access while maintaining safety standards.
The FAA is currently seeking public input on the new program. Comments can be submitted until June 9, 2025, under docket number FAA-2025-0906. It’s worth noting that more than 33,000 amateur-built aircraft are currently licensed by the FAA, representing a significant portion of the general aviation fleet.
Source: https://www.flyingmag.com/faa-lifts-some-restrictions-on-experimental-aircraft/