CPL Amendments
Ascend

Changes to Rule 5, Low Flying (April 2005)

The Rules of the Air Regulations, 1996 have been amended to bring us into line with most other European countries. The main change that affects us is that the 1500 ft rule becomes the 1,000 ft rule. There is also an allowance for balloons to land in congested areas if becalmed. Please download the following Adobe PDF Format document (115Kb) which is from the CAA's website for the exact wording of the amendment. The exact implementation date of this isn't clear so you need to seek clarification on this before you act on it.

Medical Requirements (March 2004)

Medicals

The minimum requirement for CPL restricted is for a National PPL medical, DVLA Group 2 (this is the same requirement as for a PPL who carries passengers). The medical requirements for a full commercial licence (i.e. someone who will be carrying fare paying passengers) must meet the requirements of JAR Class 2. Further details on both the NPPL and the JAR requirement can be found on the CAA website at:
http://www.caa.co.uk/srg/med/document.asp?groupid=305

Validity

Medicals are valid from the last day of the month of issue for the following periods.

Aerial Work (NPPL, DVLA Group 2)

The medical certificate will be valid from the initial medical,

  • Up to and including, age 44: Until 45th birthday or 5 years (whichever is longer)
  • 45-59: 5 years
  • 60-64: Until the 65th birthday, or 1 year (whichever is longer).
  • 65 and over: 1 year

Public Transport (JAR Class 2)

The validity of the medical certificate varies with the age of the pilot.

  • Under 30: 5 years
  • 30 - 49: 2 years
  • 50 + : annually.

Alcohol (April 2004)

Legislation has recently been enacted (end of March 2004) which appears to place a limit of 20mg of alcohol per 100mls of blood on commercial pilots. This almost certainly applies to CPL balloons but I am seeking clarification on this. For further information you may wish to download this CAA document:

Implementation of the Transport Safety Act - Download Adobe Acrobat File (126Kb - approx. 25 seconds at 56K)

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