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FAA Proposes New Hot Air Balloon Pilot Rule

For-hire hot air balloon pilots could soon need to hold the same medical certificate as a commercial pilot to do their job.

The commercial balloon industry estimates it conducts 100,000 to 250,000 passenger rides each year. Adobe Stock
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA has proposed a new rule requiring commercial hot air balloon pilots to hold a second-class medical certificate, removing their current exemption.
  • This change aims to enhance safety by aligning medical standards for balloon pilots with those of other commercial aircraft, following NTSB recommendations and a congressional directive.
  • The proposed rule is expected to impact an estimated 356 operators and nearly 5,000 commercial pilots, and will undergo a 60-day public comment period before finalization.
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For-hire hot air balloon pilots could soon need to hold the same medical certificate as a commercial pilot to do their job.

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