AOPA: BasicMed A Go For Mexico

Image: Google

While the BasicMed semi-self-certification for airmen has been a boon for stateside pilots, it’s largely a domestic policy. Now, says AOPA, Mexico is set to allow pilots flying on BasicMed to visit. The Bahamas had already recognized BasicMed.

“I would like to thank Director General Rodrigo Vásquez-Colmenares Guzmán of Mexico’s Dirección General de Aeronáutica Civil for his work and leadership that made this possible, " says AOPA President and CEO Mark Baker. “It is clear that Mexico and The Bahamas recognize that thousands of pilots are safely flying under this program, and we hope Canada will soon follow,” Baker continued.

Mexico’s aviation authority issued a policy letter on Oct. 11 recognizing BasicMed, and will allow pilots flying under that medical certification starting on Dec. 10.

AOPA says that “more than 51,000 U.S. pilots are safely flying under the BasicMed program” today. The program allows pilots to fly with as many as six occupants in aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 6000 pounds or less. BasicMed pilots are limited to flying up to 250 knots indicated and up to 18,000 feet. The pilot must see a “state-licensed physician” every 48 months and take an online medical refresher course every 24 months.

Marc CookEditor

KITPLANES Editor in Chief Marc Cook has been in aviation journalism for more than 30 years. He is a 4000-hour instrument-rated, multi-engine pilot with experience in nearly 150 types. He’s completed two kit aircraft, an Aero Designs Pulsar XP and a Glasair Sportsman 2+2, and currently flies a 2002 GlaStar.