The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently proposed a rule that would require commercial hot-air-balloon pilots to hold the same second-class medical certificate as commercial pilots when operating for hire.
The National Transportation Safety Board recommended the FAA remove the exemption. Congress directed the FAA in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 to revise the medical certification standards for commercial balloon pilots.
“Balloon pilots are responsible for the safety of their passengers,” FAA Administrator Steve Dickson said. “This proposed rule would ensure that balloon pilots meet the same medical requirements as pilots of other commercial aircraft.”
The FAA will publish the draft rule in the Federal Register this month, and the public will have 60 days to comment. A final ruling will be made after the FAA reviews all comments.
Last month, the FAA announced the Envelope of Safety accreditation program. Developed by the Balloon Federation of America, the program will enhance safety and professionalism, the FAA said, and help consumers select a ride company or pilot that strives to reach a higher safety standard.
There are three levels of accreditation, and information will be verified annually. To qualify, pilots must meet several requirements, including a specified amount of flight experience.