David Leland Hutchins

In my opinion, the third class medical should be replaced with the drivers license requirement for all privileges of Private Pilot and Sport Pilot Certificates with a provision for self-certification and a Continuation education certificate reviewing medications, health issues, and situational awareness training administered by the FAA and or AOPA AIR SAFETY FOUNDATION, AOPA, OR EAA PROGRAMS. A continuing Education program would be an effective training tool to keep all pilots trained up on these issues via internet based systems. A certificate(s) could be printed and kept as documentation of current training. This could reduce the cost of the periodical medical yet keep pilots aware of aging, medical, and health issues in a cost effective way. Thanks for your consideration. We must keep the costs down for aviation where possible yet keep training and awareness up for all.