Watch CBS News

FAA Rule Change Restores Student Pilot Birthday Solos

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) — The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association says a federal rule change has restored the ability of student pilots to fly solo on their 14th or 16th birthday, depending on the type of aircraft they're operating.

The Frederick-based group said Tuesday that the Federal Aviation Administration acceded to the group's request to grant temporary authorizations enabling youngsters to take birthday flights.

The organization says birthday solos are a rite of passage for young student pilots. People first become eligible for pilot certification at age 14 for gliders and hot-air balloons, and age 16 for all other aircraft.

Those birthday flights were effectively barred by a January rule change that requires pilot license applicants to be screened by the Transportation Security Administration. The screening can't begin until the applicant is 16.

 

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.