Removal of FAA Third-Class Medical Certificate Requirement for Military Pilot Trainees
FAA proposes to amend regulations to extend the existing exception for U.S. military pilots from the requirement to hold an FAA third-class medical certificate to military pilot trainees who already meet U.S. military pilot medical examination requirements. FAA has determined that U.S. military pilot medical examinations meet or exceed the level of safety established by FAA third-class medical certificate standards. Therefore, it is redundant to require military pilot trainees to meet both standards. The proposed rule would support streamlining the U.S. military use of civilian flight schools. The intended effects are to reduce administrative burdens and costs while maintaining safety standards.
What this item does
The short version, using the agency's own summary text.
FAA proposes to amend regulations to extend the existing exception for U.S. military pilots from the requirement to hold an FAA third-class medical certificate to military pilot trainees who already meet U.S. military pilot medical examination requirements. FAA has determined that U.S. military pilot medical examinations meet or exceed the level of safety established by FAA third-class medical certificate standards. Therefore, it is redundant to require military pilot trainees to meet both standards. The proposed rule would support streamlining the U.S. military use of civilian flight schools. The intended effects are to reduce administrative burdens and costs while maintaining safety standards.
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Important dates
The dates that matter most for this item.
Published
August 10, 2026
Comment deadline
October 9, 2026
Federal rulebook sections mentioned
These are the parts of the Code of Federal Regulations cited in the filing.