FAA Letter, our addresses public info...
 

I wasn't sure where to post this, and didn't see it already elsewhere, but I got a letter today from the FAA notifying me that my name, address, and certifications would be public if I don't option out within 60 days. Apparently it was a part of the Aviation Investment and Reform act for the 21st century.

What's the logic behind that? I don't see how having my name and address out there in the public reforms anything, unless my name is Habib and you want to come to my house to beat me up.

I get enough junk mail as it is, although if job offers started showing up in the mail based on my certifications, I might change my mind. Likelyhood of that happening? I won't hold my breath.

Does anybody see any benefit to not opting out?

I'm pretty sure that pilot's information has been public information for a long time.

https://amsrvs.registry.faa.gov/airmeninquiry/

I think what they're saying is that you can get your mailing address taken off of that display. I'm pretty sure your name/cert info still comes up though.

That link you provided requires that you have my name and address already. I got the impression from this letter that my name and address would be freely provided as public information.

You could see this coming years ago. If you have not already done it, suggest you demand a new cerificate number from FAA- other than your SSN, as all info from FAA is certain to enter the public record and be available for identity theft.

Wow, good call, mine is in fact still my SSN. Is there any specific process to that request/demand?

This should be a start....

Protect your privacy

Change your certificate number

Thanks Dog Breath, I'll definitely be making both requests here shortly.

The only reason you might want to keep your information available is if you want to continue to received "directed mailing" from various aviation related retailers and services. Often companies like King Schools, Sporty's, and local AMEs will download the database and send out mailings.

Personally, I took my address off as soon as I could. I don't want the media to be able to contact or harass my family should something ever happen to me.

Thanks for the links, Dog Breath. I've been meaning to do that for quite a while.

. . . and thanks for starting the thread, sigtauenus.