The FAA has just started issuing new, 'security-enhanced' airman certificates to the nations 650,000 active pilots. FAA Administrator Marion C. Blakey unveiled the new certificate before hundreds of aviation enthusiasts at the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) AirVenture.

The new credit card-sized certificates are made from high-quality composite PVC media card stock and incorporate new security features, such as a hologram of the FAA seal. They will replace the existing paper airman certificates which can be easily damaged. The new certificates durability and features will further protect pilot identities and add one more element of security to our aviation system, said Blakey.

The certificate will be issued to all new and existing airmen as they achieve higher levels or additional ratings. It will replace certificates that have been lost or damaged. In keeping with this years Centennial of Flight celebration, the new certificate features graphics of the Wright Brothers, 1902 Wright Glider, 1903 Wright Flyer, Boeing jet aircraft, DOT seal, and a hologram of the FAA seal. Images of the Wright Brothers were provided by the Wright Family Fund.
 
The new certificate was designed by the FAAs Civil Aviation Registry, part of the agencys Flight Standards Service. The Registry issues approximately 246,000 airman and 70,000 aircraft certificates annually.

FMI: www.faa.gov