News Archive
AOPA Boyer goes on NBC ‘Today’ as John Denver tragedy turns to controversy over medical certification
AOPA President Phil Boyer appeared on NBC’s Today Show October 15 to head off public concern about pilot medical certification.
The national press began focusing on the issue of medical certification after it was learned that singer John Denver might not have had a valid medical certificate at the time of his tragic accident.
In a live interview from Washington with Today Show host Matt Lauer in New York, Boyer said pilots are held to a much higher standard than those in other transportation modes.
Holding up his own airman and medical certificates, Boyer described pilot training and testing and explained FAA medical certification requirements. He also displayed the comprehensive medical history form pilots must complete and sign prior to the medical exam itself.
Boyer noted that any alcohol- or drug-related action—such as a DUI arrest—must be reported to the FAA within 60 days and must be reported again on the certification form. Two alcohol-related actions within three years, or three such actions in any time period, can be grounds for the FAA to deny a medical certificate.
When NBC’s Lauer asked if a pilot has to present airman and medical certificates before flying, Boyer drew the analogy that drivers don’t have to show a license every time they drive. He then contrasted that with times when airman credentials are checked.
Boyer cited random FAA ramp checks of pilot certificates and the discipline imposed by the insurance industry, which result in FBOs requiring documents prior to initial aircraft rental. For aircraft owners, he pointed to insurance industry checks prior to issuing hull or liability insurance.
Lauer then asked if such an “honor system” was adequate.
“Very much so,” Boyer replied. “This really is an honor system that works. Pilots are a very special breed of people, and they want to uphold the creed among themselves.”
Boyer ended the interview by publicly expressing the association’s sympathies to John Denver’s family and friends in order to emphasize the tragedy of his loss, and not the controversy over his medical status.
John Denver had been an AOPA member since 1968.
97-4-032
October 17, 1997
