More pilots can fly bigger planes with more people on board without a full medical exam

The US aviation regulator has loosened rules for pilots flying smaller aircraft. Pilots can now carry up to six passengers, fly planes weighing up to 12,500 pounds, and still use a simplified medical certification process.

For years, pilots of small planes had to get a full medical exam every few years, even if they were only flying for fun. This rule change means thousands more pilots can avoid that process, making it easier and cheaper to fly. It also expands who can conduct flight tests under these relaxed medical rules, which could increase the availability of instructors and examiners.