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Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License
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matronics(at)bob.brennan.
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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 6:25 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

From the most recent EAA e-Hotline newsletter:
--------------------------------
Question of the Week
My medical examination is next month. If I "fail," I know I cannot fly as a sport pilot using my driver's license for medical certification, but is this forever? Could I wait, say six months or one year, and then apply for sport pilot?
Answer:
The regulation states that you cannot use your driver's license in lieu of an FAA medical certificate if your most recent application for an FAA medical certificate was denied, revoked, suspended or withdrawn by the FAA. There is no time limit on that requirement, so it doesn't matter how long ago that denial, revocation, suspension or withdrawal took place.
The last time you applied for an FAA medical certificate, no matter how long ago it was, must have resulted in the regular or special issuance of a valid medical certificate. If that is not the case you are required to re-apply for an FAA medical certificate and have a valid medical issued in order to be able to take advantage of the possibility of using your driver's license in lieu of the medical certificate in the future.
--------------------------------

So for us "older" pilots still enjoying the full privileges of a PPL and being honest and diligent about keeping our medical certificate up-to-date; that sounds like if the AME discovers an excluding medical condition during the medical exam the only choices are to correct the condition or stop flying. However if the condition is discovered before the exam we can apply for a Sport Pilot license, or as I understand it simply continue flying on a PPL under Sport Pilot restrictions, without divulging the medical condition.

Does that make sense? Or am I reading it wrong? So if I typically fly my Light Sport Kitfox under Sport Pilot restrictions anyway should I actually *avoid* keeping my class 3 medical up to date? Before I get a litany of responses on the unconnectedness of a Light Sport rated aircraft and a Sport Pilot license - that's already been covered here and is not my point.

My point is that I thought I could continue flying as a PPL (sometimes I rent a Cessna) as long as I pass my class 3 medical every 2 years, and switch to Sport Pilot if/when age and conditions inevitably catch up with me. But the above quote seems to say that if I do it that way I risk losing the privilege to fly forever if the condition that causes me to fail my medical can't be corrected. However if I do not take a medical, in effect "hiding" a condition from the FAA, I can continue to fly as a Sport Pilot as long as I retain a driver's license.

Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly". Or should I shop for an AME that is sympathetic enough to not send off the application to the FAA is there is a chance it would fail, after the fact? Although last time I got my medical I applied online before seeing the AME, and I think that might be the only way of doing it soon.

Any AMEs out there got advice on this seeming contradiction in rules? I'm sure it's close to a lot of people on this list.

Bob Brennan - N717GB
ELSA Repairman, inspection rated
1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox
Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop
Wrightsville Pa

[quote][b]


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vetdrem



Joined: 20 Nov 2007
Posts: 62

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 7:18 am    Post subject: Re: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

I was doing exactly as you are considering doing. I allowed my medical certificate to expire and flew my Taylorcraft and my kitfox (both meet the light sport regulations) as a "private pilot, exercising sport pilot privleges".

I could not fly anything that did not meet those requirements, but I didn't need to, anyway.

I was considering a trip to Canada, and was going to get a seaplane rating, so I crossed my fingers, and went to the AME for an exam. I passed and there was no problem, but if there had been, you are right, I would have had to correct the condition causing the failure before I could have flown again.

You seem to be looking at allowing your medical to expire as HIDING something from the FAA, but you really are not. The rule says that if your state says that you are healthy enough to drive a car, then you are healthy enough to fly under the sport pilot rules. If you have a condition that makes it unsafe for you to drive, then of course, you can not fly.

If at a later time you decide that the sport pilot privileges are too restrictive (you want to rent that 152 or you want to fly at night, or something else) you can simply go to the local AME and renew your medical.

Actually, right now, I am flying as a Private Pilot, exercising sport pilot privileges, even though I have a valid medical. I am required to wear glasses to be legal to fly, but I don't wear them for any other activity (including driving), so I fly without them, and if asked, I am legal because they are not required for my drivers license.

Louie
model 3 w/ 912ul and a T-craft


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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 7:55 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Thanks for the reply Louie, let me be a little more specific. And tell a
story, as older guys love to do Wink

I went through a stressful divorce a few years ago, and have a family
history of high blood pressure. Realising the stress of the time was not
healthy for me, and also realising that if I didn't control it I might end
up choking the sh*t out of someone who desperately needed it (joking of
course, sort of), I decided to join a local gym. Partly because it was a
healthy alternative and about the same price as the amount of alcohol I was
wanting to consume but also offered better opportunity to interact with fit
members of the opposite sex<g>.

The application to the gym included a blood pressure test; obviously due to
the stress it was above their limits, so I was denied the ability to use
their equipment to lower my blood pressure. More logical than the FAA
situation, but a catch-22 none the less. So I cut out all salt and fat, took
aspirin 3 times a day for a week, and went to my doctor to get a certified
reading within their limits. Oh, and also met a lovely lady at the gym who
just flew over from the UK (where I lived at the time) to visit, although no
plans for future commitments.

Story finished, I realise that the FAA requirements for blood pressure range
could make me fail my examination even though it is hereditary and I have
learned how to control it myself, but more importantly it would never
restrict my driver's license and hence flying as a sport pilot.

My reason for this post is not about my blood pressure, which I know if
worst case made me fail my medical I could go on FAA-approved medication and
re-take the exam and get a medical. Or dose up on aspirin again. My reason
for posting is - what if the AME finds something I can't easily control but
would not have affected my ability to fly as a Sport Pilot?

I know many older guys (many on this list) who know they have a condition
that would not allow them to pass a medical so they made the decision to fly
as a Sport Pilot, which BTW I think is a GREAT boon to allow older pilots to
fly under certain restrictions rather than as it was in the past.

My question is that it does not seem logical, or fair, or encouraging
honesty on the part of the pilot; that if the uncorrectable condition is
discovered as a rejection of a medical certificate then the pilot can never
fly again, whereas if it is discovered as part of a routine medical then the
pilot can convert to lower privileges himself. It sounds like the FAA is
saying "what we don't know won't hurt us, only you; but if we do know then
we can't let you even make that decision". Or am I missing something?

It discourages guys like me from maintaining their medical certificate as a
means of knowing that nothing has changed since my last physical, and in
doing so discourages safety. It's tough enough to get a guy to go to the
doctor at all!

Bob Brennan - N717GB
ELSA Repairman, inspection rated
1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox
Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop
Wrightsville Pa
--


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rjdaugh



Joined: 30 Aug 2006
Posts: 195

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 7:58 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Bob,
You don’t have to “apply” for a sport pilot license. You just fly as a sport pilot with a private license.

Randy
Private flying last 4 years as a sport pilot….


From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bob Brennan
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 7:25 AM
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


From the most recent EAA e-Hotline newsletter:

--------------------------------

[b]Question of the Week[/b]
My medical examination is next month. If I "fail," I know I cannot fly as a sport pilot using my driver's license for medical certification, but is this forever? Could I wait, say six months or one year, and then apply for sport pilot?
Answer:
The regulation states that you cannot use your driver's license in lieu of an FAA medical certificate if your most recent application for an FAA medical certificate was denied, revoked, suspended or withdrawn by the FAA. There is no time limit on that requirement, so it doesn't matter how long ago that denial, revocation, suspension or withdrawal took place.

The last time you applied for an FAA medical certificate, no matter how long ago it was, must have resulted in the regular or special issuance of a valid medical certificate. If that is not the case you are required to re-apply for an FAA medical certificate and have a valid medical issued in order to be able to take advantage of the possibility of using your driver's license in lieu of the medical certificate in the future.

--------------------------------



So for us "older" pilots still enjoying the full privileges of a PPL and being honest and diligent about keeping our medical certificate up-to-date; that sounds like if the AME discovers an excluding medical condition during the medical exam the only choices are to correct the condition or stop flying. However if the condition is discovered before the exam we can apply for a Sport Pilot license, or as I understand it simply continue flying on a PPL under Sport Pilot restrictions, without divulging the medical condition.



Does that make sense? Or am I reading it wrong? So if I typically fly my Light Sport Kitfox under Sport Pilot restrictions anyway should I actually *avoid* keeping my class 3 medical up to date? Before I get a litany of responses on the unconnectedness of a Light Sport rated aircraft and a Sport Pilot license - that's already been covered here and is not my point.



My point is that I thought I could continue flying as a PPL (sometimes I rent a Cessna) as long as I pass my class 3 medical every 2 years, and switch to Sport Pilot if/when age and conditions inevitably catch up with me. But the above quote seems to say that if I do it that way I risk losing the privilege to fly forever if the condition that causes me to fail my medical can't be corrected. However if I do not take a medical, in effect "hiding" a condition from the FAA, I can continue to fly as a Sport Pilot as long as I retain a driver's license.



Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly". Or should I shop for an AME that is sympathetic enough to not send off the application to the FAA is there is a chance it would fail, after the fact? Although last time I got my medical I applied online before seeing the AME, and I think that might be the only way of doing it soon.



Any AMEs out there got advice on this seeming contradiction in rules? I'm sure it's close to a lot of people on this list.



Bob Brennan - N717GB

ELSA Repairman, inspection rated

1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox

Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop

Wrightsville Pa


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Guy Buchanan



Joined: 16 Jul 2006
Posts: 1204
Location: Ramona, CA

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 7:59 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

At 06:24 AM 12/26/2008, you wrote:
Quote:
Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly". Or should I shop for an AME that is sympathetic enough to not send off the application to the FAA is there is a chance it would fail, after the fact? Although last time I got my medical I applied online before seeing the AME, and I think that might be the only way of doing it soon.

Bob,
From all I've read over the last couple of years you've got it completely right, and that is one of the most severe criticisms the Sport Pilot regulations have had to endure. I don't think it's as onerous as it sounds, since I never cease to be amazed at the medical conditions people overcome to get their Class 3 back. And all you have to do is get it back once to revert to Sport Pilot licensing. I suspect that what's going to happen is the AMEs will figure out how to "pre-test" people who request it. I do this with my cars. For a little more money my smog station pre-tests the car, and if it looks like it's going to fail excessively they will hand it back to me without running the official smog test. That way I don't get labeled a "gross-polluter" and have to jump through a bunch of hoops to get the car smogged. Right now AMEs, once they initiate the medical review process, must follow through with the FAA, there's no stopping a failing review. What I don't know is what the FAA has tasked them with, ethically, with regards to the new Sport Pilot license. Are they prohibited from giving a physical exam that covers the Class 3, but is not FAA sanctioned? (Of course, most of the Class 3 physical exam is provided by the examinee. You fill out the paperwork and certify it. If you know you're going to write something suspect you're going to want to first pose a hypothetical question to the AME before you fill out the paperwork. If the answer comes back negative, I guess you're a Sport Pilot.)


Guy Buchanan
San Diego, CA
K-IV/1200 w/ 582 C-box & Warp 3 blade
100% and flying thanks mostly to Bob Ducar [quote][b]


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Roger Lee



Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 1464
Location: Tucson, Az.

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:01 am    Post subject: Re: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Hi Bob,

You are right in your statements. One way some pilots check to see if they will fail the flight medical is to take advantage of your personal medical insurance free physical by your personal doctor. Most insurance companies offer one free physical per year for you and your wife. Use it. If you pass that one ok then you can go get your PPL medical. If you know you can't pass then don't get the PPL medical and start flying LSA. It's not a perfect system, but is all we have.
You are right that if you lose your PPL medical then you would have to get it back before going to the LSA license.

Once we get past 21 years of age it's all down hill. Crying or Very sad


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Tom Jones



Joined: 12 Mar 2006
Posts: 752
Location: Ellensburg, WA

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:06 am    Post subject: Re: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Quote:
Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly".


Yes it sounds like that is what they are saying. One explanation for that wording in the sport pilot rules is that the FAA realizes it would be contradictory to deny pilot privileges with one hand...a failed medical...and give them back with the other...sport pilot rules.

If you go ahead and let your medical lapse you can continue to fly under sport pilot rules. The FAA is off the hook because they have not denied your medical and your drivers license fulfills the physical requirements to fly under sport pilot rules.

I would agree that someone who thinks they may fail an FAA medical, takes that medical even though they fly LSA eligible airplanes only, and has no compelling need to maintain a medical, is probably to stupid to be allowed to fly.


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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:08 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Randy,

Thanks for your response. I realise that as a PPL I do not need to apply to fly as a Sport Pilot, all I need is my PPL, a valid driver's license, and to stay within the restrictions of the Sport Pilot privilege.

But my point was that it seems that if I discover I can no longer get a class 3 medical by failing that medical then the choice to fly as a Sport Pilot is no longer available to me. Ever. As long as the condition that denied me the medical persists. Whereas pilots who chose to stop getting a medical, and in effect "hide" the condition from the FAA, can continue to fly.

Would you mind elaborating your own reason for flying as "Private flying last 4 years as a sport pilot…."? I assume you chose to stop applying for a medical rather than being denied?

bob


From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Randy Daughenbaugh
Sent: 26 December 2008 10:57 am
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: RE: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


Bob,
You don’t have to “apply” for a sport pilot license. You just fly as a sport pilot with a private license.

Randy
Private flying last 4 years as a sport pilot….


From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bob Brennan
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 7:25 AM
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


From the most recent EAA e-Hotline newsletter:

--------------------------------

[b]Question of the Week[/b]
My medical examination is next month. If I "fail," I know I cannot fly as a sport pilot using my driver's license for medical certification, but is this forever? Could I wait, say six months or one year, and then apply for sport pilot?
Answer:
The regulation states that you cannot use your driver's license in lieu of an FAA medical certificate if your most recent application for an FAA medical certificate was denied, revoked, suspended or withdrawn by the FAA. There is no time limit on that requirement, so it doesn't matter how long ago that denial, revocation, suspension or withdrawal took place.

The last time you applied for an FAA medical certificate, no matter how long ago it was, must have resulted in the regular or special issuance of a valid medical certificate. If that is not the case you are required to re-apply for an FAA medical certificate and have a valid medical issued in order to be able to take advantage of the possibility of using your driver's license in lieu of the medical certificate in the future.

--------------------------------



So for us "older" pilots still enjoying the full privileges of a PPL and being honest and diligent about keeping our medical certificate up-to-date; that sounds like if the AME discovers an excluding medical condition during the medical exam the only choices are to correct the condition or stop flying. However if the condition is discovered before the exam we can apply for a Sport Pilot license, or as I understand it simply continue flying on a PPL under Sport Pilot restrictions, without divulging the medical condition.



Does that make sense? Or am I reading it wrong? So if I typically fly my Light Sport Kitfox under Sport Pilot restrictions anyway should I actually *avoid* keeping my class 3 medical up to date? Before I get a litany of responses on the unconnectedness of a Light Sport rated aircraft and a Sport Pilot license - that's already been covered here and is not my point.



My point is that I thought I could continue flying as a PPL (sometimes I rent a Cessna) as long as I pass my class 3 medical every 2 years, and switch to Sport Pilot if/when age and conditions inevitably catch up with me. But the above quote seems to say that if I do it that way I risk losing the privilege to fly forever if the condition that causes me to fail my medical can't be corrected. However if I do not take a medical, in effect "hiding" a condition from the FAA, I can continue to fly as a Sport Pilot as long as I retain a driver's license.



Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly". Or should I shop for an AME that is sympathetic enough to not send off the application to the FAA is there is a chance it would fail, after the fact? Although last time I got my medical I applied online before seeing the AME, and I think that might be the only way of doing it soon.



Any AMEs out there got advice on this seeming contradiction in rules? I'm sure it's close to a lot of people on this list.



Bob Brennan - N717GB

ELSA Repairman, inspection rated

1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox

Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop

Wrightsville Pa


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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:24 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Guy,

I was *very* lucky to get an understanding AME who was a pilot himself when I renewed my medical after many years of being in the UK. The new online application had many questions, and being the honest (and hence potentially stupid) guy that I am it asked if I *ever* had any debilitating diseases. I had a severe case of CFIDS (Chronic Fatigue) more than 20 years ago but have been in complete remission ever since, but I ticked "yes". The AME advised me that it might trigger a rejection and used his magical editing privileges to correct it to a "no" online at FAA.org, something I was not allowed to undo.

At the time I was not aware of the dire consequences of such honesty and even now I get an 8 on the 1-10 Sphincter Scale when I think I might have lost the privilege of being a pilot forever for something that was cured of twenty years ago. The CFIDS, not the stupidity, obviously... ;-o

Just thought the list should be *very* aware of this particular "hoop". It's one of those fiery ones.

Bob Brennan - N717GB
ELSA Repairman, inspection rated
1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox
Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop
Wrightsville Pa
From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Guy Buchanan
Sent: 26 December 2008 10:58 am
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Re: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License

At 06:24 AM 12/26/2008, you wrote:
Quote:
Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly". Or should I shop for an AME that is sympathetic enough to not send off the application to the FAA is there is a chance it would fail, after the fact? Although last time I got my medical I applied online before seeing the AME, and I think that might be the only way of doing it soon.

Bob,
From all I've read over the last couple of years you've got it completely right, and that is one of the most severe criticisms the Sport Pilot regulations have had to endure. I don't think it's as onerous as it sounds, since I never cease to be amazed at the medical conditions people overcome to get their Class 3 back. And all you have to do is get it back once to revert to Sport Pilot licensing. I suspect that what's going to happen is the AMEs will figure out how to "pre-test" people who request it. I do this with my cars. For a little more money my smog station pre-tests the car, and if it looks like it's going to fail excessively they will hand it back to me without running the official smog test. That way I don't get labeled a "gross-polluter" and have to jump through a bunch of hoops to get the car smogged. Right now AMEs, once they initiate the medical review process, must follow through with the FAA, there's no stopping a failing review. What I don't know is what the FAA has tasked them with, ethically, with regards to the new Sport Pilot license. Are they prohibited from giving a physical exam that covers the Class 3, but is not FAA sanctioned? (Of course, most of the Class 3 physical exam is provided by the examinee. You fill out the paperwork and certify it. If you know you're going to write something suspect you're going to want to first pose a hypothetical question to the AME before you fill out the paperwork. If the answer comes back negative, I guess you're a Sport Pilot.)


Guy Buchanan
San Diego, CA
K-IV/1200 w/ 582 C-box & Warp 3 blade
100% and flying thanks mostly to Bob Ducar [quote]

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larry huntley



Joined: 19 Jul 2008
Posts: 149

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:31 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Bob,
I flew for a couple of years as a SP because I was flying a Fox and a Champ. A friend dropped off his Pacer and asked me to exercise it occasionally,so I went for a medical again.My Tripacer will be flying again after a 3 yr rebuild,so I will maintain PP. Otherwise I would fly as SP anyway ,so why bother.
[quote] ---


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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:34 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Roger,

I need to find a personal physician who knows the complete requirements of a
class 3 airman's medical certificate then, and in my experience those are
AMEs in the first place. But I do appreciate your point. And as Guy pointed
out - does the FAA allow an AME to do a "pre-test"? I was extremely lucky in
the UK to have a CFI who gave me a pre-GFT (General Flight Test) before a
chargeable one. He said if I pass the pre-test I wouldn't need to redo it. I
had several pre-tests... but was only charged once.

BTW what is the point of the drop-your-shorts and turn-you-head-and-cough
part of the class 3 exam?? If I didn't have 'em I wouldn't have become a
pilot in the first place! And is a full rectal exam (optional I was told, I
opted NOT!) really necessary to be a pilot? Again, it's obvious you have to
have one to be one...

Bob Brennan - N717GB
ELSA Repairman, inspection rated
1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox
Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop
Wrightsville Pa

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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:42 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Larry,

"why bother" was something I always thought was an available option, but it seems that if you, or any PPL-rated pilot, decides to re-validate the privileges with a class 3 medical; not only risks losing the privileges of his PPL but also his Sport Pilot privileges and the ability to fly at all, possibly forever.

That bothers me, but now that I am aware of it I will be careful. Just posting so others are also aware, or can offer a more logical alternative.

Bob Brennan - N717GB
ELSA Repairman, inspection rated
1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox
Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop
Wrightsville Pa
From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Larry Huntley
Sent: 26 December 2008 11:31 am
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Re: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License

Bob,
I flew for a couple of years as a SP because I was flying a Fox and a Champ. A friend dropped off his Pacer and asked me to exercise it occasionally,so I went for a medical again.My Tripacer will be flying again after a 3 yr rebuild,so I will maintain PP. Otherwise I would fly as SP anyway ,so why bother.
[quote] ---


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rjdaugh



Joined: 30 Aug 2006
Posts: 195

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:57 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Bob,
I built my series 5 (series 7 firewall foreward) light and assigned it a weight of 1320 so it would comply with the sport pilot regs. I see no reason to keep my private active so I simply save the expense of the medical. I think I could pass it now, but in a year? 5 years?

I agree. It seems like a dumb situation. As someone said, if you are dumb enough to go for a physical you can’t pass, maybe you shouldn’t be flying…. But, I think I have put myself into trying to rationalize the rule. Maybe I am the dumb one…

Thanks for the CFIDS story. I would not have thought of that.

Randy


From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bob Brennan
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 9:08 AM
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: RE: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


Randy,

Thanks for your response. I realise that as a PPL I do not need to apply to fly as a Sport Pilot, all I need is my PPL, a valid driver's license, and to stay within the restrictions of the Sport Pilot privilege.


But my point was that it seems that if I discover I can no longer get a class 3 medical by failing that medical then the choice to fly as a Sport Pilot is no longer available to me. Ever. As long as the condition that denied me the medical persists. Whereas pilots who chose to stop getting a medical, and in effect "hide" the condition from the FAA, can continue to fly.



Would you mind elaborating your own reason for flying as "Private flying last 4 years as a sport pilot…."? I assume you chose to stop applying for a medical rather than being denied?



bob




From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Randy Daughenbaugh
Sent: 26 December 2008 10:57 am
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: RE: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License
Bob,
You don’t have to “apply” for a sport pilot license. You just fly as a sport pilot with a private license.

Randy
Private flying last 4 years as a sport pilot….


From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bob Brennan
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 7:25 AM
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


From the most recent EAA e-Hotline newsletter:

--------------------------------

[b]Question of the Week[/b]
My medical examination is next month. If I "fail," I know I cannot fly as a sport pilot using my driver's license for medical certification, but is this forever? Could I wait, say six months or one year, and then apply for sport pilot?
Answer:
The regulation states that you cannot use your driver's license in lieu of an FAA medical certificate if your most recent application for an FAA medical certificate was denied, revoked, suspended or withdrawn by the FAA. There is no time limit on that requirement, so it doesn't matter how long ago that denial, revocation, suspension or withdrawal took place.

The last time you applied for an FAA medical certificate, no matter how long ago it was, must have resulted in the regular or special issuance of a valid medical certificate. If that is not the case you are required to re-apply for an FAA medical certificate and have a valid medical issued in order to be able to take advantage of the possibility of using your driver's license in lieu of the medical certificate in the future.

--------------------------------



So for us "older" pilots still enjoying the full privileges of a PPL and being honest and diligent about keeping our medical certificate up-to-date; that sounds like if the AME discovers an excluding medical condition during the medical exam the only choices are to correct the condition or stop flying. However if the condition is discovered before the exam we can apply for a Sport Pilot license, or as I understand it simply continue flying on a PPL under Sport Pilot restrictions, without divulging the medical condition.



Does that make sense? Or am I reading it wrong? So if I typically fly my Light Sport Kitfox under Sport Pilot restrictions anyway should I actually *avoid* keeping my class 3 medical up to date? Before I get a litany of responses on the unconnectedness of a Light Sport rated aircraft and a Sport Pilot license - that's already been covered here and is not my point.



My point is that I thought I could continue flying as a PPL (sometimes I rent a Cessna) as long as I pass my class 3 medical every 2 years, and switch to Sport Pilot if/when age and conditions inevitably catch up with me. But the above quote seems to say that if I do it that way I risk losing the privilege to fly forever if the condition that causes me to fail my medical can't be corrected. However if I do not take a medical, in effect "hiding" a condition from the FAA, I can continue to fly as a Sport Pilot as long as I retain a driver's license.



Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly". Or should I shop for an AME that is sympathetic enough to not send off the application to the FAA is there is a chance it would fail, after the fact? Although last time I got my medical I applied online before seeing the AME, and I think that might be the only way of doing it soon.



Any AMEs out there got advice on this seeming contradiction in rules? I'm sure it's close to a lot of people on this list.



Bob Brennan - N717GB

ELSA Repairman, inspection rated

1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox

Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop

Wrightsville Pa


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Kitfox 5/7 912S
Black Hills, South Dakota
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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 9:21 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Randy,

I am not dumb enough < Wink > to take a medical that I cannot pass, but it's the things you didn't think of that get you in the butt.

Another story, sad but true, of a former pilot I knew who was banned from flying because he checked "yes" on the "have you ever blacked out?" box on the medical. According to him he had broken his prize meerschaum pipe one day and fixed it with a bit of epoxy. He smoked it too soon, inhaled bad fumes, blacked out and was taken to the emergency room and given a clean bill of health. Yes he may have been dumb for smoking epoxy fumes and dumber still for admitting it on an FAA form, but the dumbest assumption was that the FAA would disregard his dumbness in either situation. Last I heard he was still fighting to get his license back after 4 years of failed attempts.

Maybe it is better he was not allowed to fly, being triple-dumb, but hey we all can be dumb sometimes!

bob

From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Randy Daughenbaugh
Sent: 26 December 2008 11:56 am
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: RE: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


Bob,
I built my series 5 (series 7 firewall foreward) light and assigned it a weight of 1320 so it would comply with the sport pilot regs. I see no reason to keep my private active so I simply save the expense of the medical. I think I could pass it now, but in a year? 5 years?

I agree. It seems like a dumb situation. As someone said, if you are dumb enough to go for a physical you can’t pass, maybe you shouldn’t be flying…. But, I think I have put myself into trying to rationalize the rule. Maybe I am the dumb one…

Thanks for the CFIDS story. I would not have thought of that.

Randy


From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bob Brennan
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 9:08 AM
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: RE: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


Randy,

Thanks for your response. I realise that as a PPL I do not need to apply to fly as a Sport Pilot, all I need is my PPL, a valid driver's license, and to stay within the restrictions of the Sport Pilot privilege.


But my point was that it seems that if I discover I can no longer get a class 3 medical by failing that medical then the choice to fly as a Sport Pilot is no longer available to me. Ever. As long as the condition that denied me the medical persists. Whereas pilots who chose to stop getting a medical, and in effect "hide" the condition from the FAA, can continue to fly.



Would you mind elaborating your own reason for flying as "Private flying last 4 years as a sport pilot…."? I assume you chose to stop applying for a medical rather than being denied?



bob




From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Randy Daughenbaugh
Sent: 26 December 2008 10:57 am
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: RE: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License
Bob,
You don’t have to “apply” for a sport pilot license. You just fly as a sport pilot with a private license.

Randy
Private flying last 4 years as a sport pilot….


From: owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com [mailto:owner-kitfox-list-server(at)matronics.com] On Behalf Of Bob Brennan
Sent: Friday, December 26, 2008 7:25 AM
To: kitfox-list(at)matronics.com
Subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License


From the most recent EAA e-Hotline newsletter:

--------------------------------

[b]Question of the Week[/b]
My medical examination is next month. If I "fail," I know I cannot fly as a sport pilot using my driver's license for medical certification, but is this forever? Could I wait, say six months or one year, and then apply for sport pilot?
Answer:
The regulation states that you cannot use your driver's license in lieu of an FAA medical certificate if your most recent application for an FAA medical certificate was denied, revoked, suspended or withdrawn by the FAA. There is no time limit on that requirement, so it doesn't matter how long ago that denial, revocation, suspension or withdrawal took place.

The last time you applied for an FAA medical certificate, no matter how long ago it was, must have resulted in the regular or special issuance of a valid medical certificate. If that is not the case you are required to re-apply for an FAA medical certificate and have a valid medical issued in order to be able to take advantage of the possibility of using your driver's license in lieu of the medical certificate in the future.

--------------------------------



So for us "older" pilots still enjoying the full privileges of a PPL and being honest and diligent about keeping our medical certificate up-to-date; that sounds like if the AME discovers an excluding medical condition during the medical exam the only choices are to correct the condition or stop flying. However if the condition is discovered before the exam we can apply for a Sport Pilot license, or as I understand it simply continue flying on a PPL under Sport Pilot restrictions, without divulging the medical condition.



Does that make sense? Or am I reading it wrong? So if I typically fly my Light Sport Kitfox under Sport Pilot restrictions anyway should I actually *avoid* keeping my class 3 medical up to date? Before I get a litany of responses on the unconnectedness of a Light Sport rated aircraft and a Sport Pilot license - that's already been covered here and is not my point.



My point is that I thought I could continue flying as a PPL (sometimes I rent a Cessna) as long as I pass my class 3 medical every 2 years, and switch to Sport Pilot if/when age and conditions inevitably catch up with me. But the above quote seems to say that if I do it that way I risk losing the privilege to fly forever if the condition that causes me to fail my medical can't be corrected. However if I do not take a medical, in effect "hiding" a condition from the FAA, I can continue to fly as a Sport Pilot as long as I retain a driver's license.



Sounds like the FAA is saying "if you're stupid enough to reveal your condition to an AME then you're too stupid to fly". Or should I shop for an AME that is sympathetic enough to not send off the application to the FAA is there is a chance it would fail, after the fact? Although last time I got my medical I applied online before seeing the AME, and I think that might be the only way of doing it soon.



Any AMEs out there got advice on this seeming contradiction in rules? I'm sure it's close to a lot of people on this list.



Bob Brennan - N717GB

ELSA Repairman, inspection rated

1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox

Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop

Wrightsville Pa


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larry huntley



Joined: 19 Jul 2008
Posts: 149

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 9:24 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Sorry Bob,
What I meant was that in my case, if I didn't fly the Tripacer,"why bother" ,with the medical. I will just keep flying as a SP. You are correct that if you fail the class 3,you cannot fly SP. If you fail the Class 3 and it is because of something you can fix or be treated for and get reinstated,you are home free. Next time around you can become a SP.
Another thought . An FAA person told me some time ago that if you feel you may have a problem,go for a class 2 medical. If you pass it great. If not ask your ME if he thinks you could pass a class 3. If he says no, exam is over. You did not fail a class 3 medical. You are a Sport Pilot. Larry Huntley KF 4-1200,Soob,500+

.
[quote] ---


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Kitfox 4-1200 N234EE
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Lynn Matteson



Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 9:36 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Quote:

<matronics(at)bob.brennan.name>

Thanks for the reply Louie, let me be a little more specific. And
tell a
story, as older guys love to do Wink

WHAAAAAAAT???? ....where'd you hear that? : )
Lynn Matteson
Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger
Jabiru 2200, #2062, 596+ hrs
Sensenich 62x46
flying again after rebuild, and new Electroair direct-fire ignition
system;
also building a new pair of snow skis
do not archive


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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 9:55 am    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Would you like to hear a story about how some guys on this list tell stories
Lynn? Wink

Fortunately most old guys like stories because it reminds them of, and gives
them permission to tell, stories of their own!

Bob Brennan - N717GB
ELSA Repairman, inspection rated
1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox
Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop
Wrightsville Pa

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Lynn Matteson



Joined: 10 Jan 2006
Posts: 2778
Location: Grass Lake, Michigan

PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 12:25 pm    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Yes, please...I think we need to run them out of town on a rail...or
tar and feather them....or something drastic....of all the
nerve...telling stories on a builders help list...tsk, tsk, tsk...

Lynn Matteson
Kitfox IV Speedster, taildragger
Jabiru 2200, #2062, 596+ hrs
Sensenich 62x46
flying again after rebuild, and new Electroair direct-fire ignition
system;
also building a new pair of snow skis
do not archive

On Dec 26, 2008, at 12:54 PM, Bob Brennan wrote:

[quote]
<matronics(at)bob.brennan.name>

Would you like to hear a story about how some guys on this list
tell stories
Lynn? Wink

Fortunately most old guys like stories because it reminds them of,
and gives
them permission to tell, stories of their own!

Bob Brennan - N717GB
ELSA Repairman, inspection rated
1991 UK Model 2 ELSA Kitfox
Rotax 582 with 3 blade prop
Wrightsville Pa

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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 6:03 pm    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Bob,

As a GA and airline pilot, I've had a special issuance (1st class) for over 20 years and high blood pressure to boot. The FAA has made it very easy for a pilot to get BP meds because they realized guys were avoiding medical treatment of this disease out of fear of losing their certificate. The consequences of not taking the meds were too dangerous. Almost any BP med is now on the FAA approved list. They only ask for a pilot to ascertain any side effects and ensure they don't affect flying. (By the way, the same goes for sleep apnea. It's not that difficult to regain certification, just $$, don't ask how I know this:-)
I understand the salt, fat reduction, and the exercise regimen you discussed, and that's great, but I've never heard any doctor recommend aspirin 3 times a day to reduce BP. The side effects of aspirin are serious; internal bleeding, gastric disorders, etc. I hope you're not still doing that.
As for Sport Pilot, the feds were backed into a corner. Sport Pilot was supported by the industry and touted by the FAA as a cost reduction to get more people into flying, not as means for us old guys to skirt medical certification conditions. Thus, if you know you have a disqualifying condition, and the FAA doesn't, what can they do? However, once they know, what can they do? Now you and they both know your condition and they can't legally, turn their back to it, as the rule is currently written. Also. it's not likely the rule will change due to the time, cost, and other problems involved in fixing it. It's sad it can't be fixed, but it is what it is.
I would recommend establishing a good relationship with your AME and get a physical by him or her in advance,maybe 'within minutes'Smile of the flight physical. If you pass fine, if it doesn't, stop there. If the problem is such that immediate action is required then so be it.  Better to live and not fly. Go get healed, come back and try again. The relationship 'thing' can't be overemphasized. Most AME's want you to fly and come back frequently for more flight physicals. They also want you to be safe. Most will always work with you, if not, FIRE him and go find another.
If you're a member, you can always call the EAA board of medical advisors with your questions. They will give you an unbiased answer and you can do this without fear of repercussion. The same is true for AOPA. Use these folks, as they are there for you. Heck, your dues are paying for this service.
Just my two cents.

Rick Weiss
N39RW Series V Speedster, 912ULS
SkyStar S/N 1
Port Orange, FL )
DO NOT ARCHIVE


On Dec 26, 2008, at 10:55 AM, Bob Brennan wrote:
Quote:
So I cut out all salt and fat, took
aspirin 3 times a day for a week, and went to my doctor to get a certified
reading within their limits.

= [quote][b]


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PostPosted: Fri Dec 26, 2008 8:14 pm    Post subject: Full PPL vs Sport Pilot License Reply with quote

Rick sez:

Quote:
I would recommend establishing a good relationship with your AME...

I agree completely. My AME is a former corporate jet pilot turned neurologist turned AME. He WANTS me to pass my physical. He WANTS to keep me in the left seat. If your doctor is busy looking for reasons to ground you or doesn't care one way or the other, it's time for a new doctor.

Mike G.
N728KF, Kitfox IV-1200 Speedster
Phoenix, AZ


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