Christian Todd Grisier

As a GA pilot and someone who has been involved in the aviation industry for roughly thirteen years, I have rather strong feelings on this subject. I understand that aviation needs to be closely regulated for safety, consistency, and liability purposes. In fact, the fact that this industry has become very safe over the years is a direct result of such regulation. However, in this case, I believe there is an unnecessary overlap. In order to exercise piloting privileges, we must carry on our person or in the aircraft a copy of our current medical certification. If someone must receive a special issuance, why should they also be burdened with carrying the letter of approval? They would not receive a medical certificate in the first place without that letter, so the certificate itself proves that at one point a letter was used to gain medical approval. Pilots have a lot to keep track of in order to fly, and this seems like an unnecessary addition. Also, if a regulation proves to be a burden or insignificant over time, should it not be removed? In three years not one pilot ever had to produce the letter of approval. If in that much time it was never needed, I do not see a need for it in the future. Again, I understand and fully support tight regulation of the aviation industry, but in this case I believe it is just an unnecessary overlap. Thank you for your time and consideration.