[JYO] FAA to issue new plastic, secure airman certificates

FAA to issue new plastic, secure airman certificates


Aug. 4 — Administrator Marion Blakey announced late last week that the FAA 
plans to begin issuing new airman certificates, replacing the current paper 
with 
plastic credit-card-sized certificates that incorporate security features.
"AOPA has been urging the FAA to revamp pilots' certificates," said AOPA 
President Phil Boyer. "This new certificate will benefit pilots because it is 
sturdier and less likely to become lost or damaged, and at the same time 
addresses 
many of the concerns for security officials.
"The new certificate complements an AOPA proposal that the FAA turned into a 
rule, requiring pilots to carry a government-issued photo ID as well as a 
pilot certificate, that effectively addressed the identity issue."
The FAA will issue the new certificates as pilots achieve higher levels or 
additional ratings, and as lost or damaged certificates are replaced.
In addition, pilots who would like to replace their paper certificate with 
the new plastic one may submit an application to replace a lost or destroyed 
certificate, along with the $2 fee. When the new certificate arrives, it 
becomes 
the pilot's valid certificate, and the old paper certificate should be 
destroyed.
In her announcement, Blakey said, "The new certificate's durability and 
features will further protect pilot identities and add one more element of 
security 
to our aviation system."
In keeping with this year's Centennial of Flight celebration, the new 
certificate features graphics of the Wright brothers, 1902 Wright Glider, 1903 
Wright 
Flyer, a jet aircraft, DOT seal, and a hologram of the FAA seal.

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