FAA Checklist, AOPA Course Ready for BasicMed Implementation

April 24, 2017 - On April 24, the FAA released the final checklist for the physician visit required by BasicMed allowing pilots to visit their regular doctor in preparation for the program’s official implementation on May 1. To fly under BasicMed a pilot must have the checklist, called the Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC) by the FAA, signed by a state-licensed physician and kept in the pilot’s personal records. AOPA’s online medical self-assessment course approved for BasicMed is also now available. AOPA’s course is one of two being offered to satisfy the BasicMed requirement, the other is provided by Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic has released a video that discusses some of the highlights of BasicMed and provides a preview of its own medical self-assessment course.

As a reminder, before flying under BasicMed beginning May 1, one must:

• Have held a third-class medical certificate or special issuance at any point since July 15, 2006.
  • New pilots and pilots who fall outside the above window must obtain a one-time third-class medical certificate or special issuance before flying under BasicMed.
• Visit any state-licensed doctor and have them review and sign the CMEC during the visit. Retain the CMEC records.
• Take one of the online medical self-assessment courses provided by AOPA or Mayo Clinic. Retain proof of completion.

There is much more to BasicMed than the above requirements. Pilots who wish to start flying under BasicMed on May 1 are strongly encouraged to read FAA Advisory Circular 68-1 and EAA’s BasicMed FAQs, or visit EAA's BasicMed Resource Center. If you have any questions, please call us at 800-564-6322.