FAQs

What is a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA)?
A Light Sport Aircraft is a relatively new class of aircraft in the United States. Weighing in at a maximum of 1,320 pounds, it’s between the ultralight variety of aircraft and the more generally recognized small airplane. Light Sport Aircraft are perfect beginner aircraft because of their more economical price tag and shorter certification training. They are simple, lower energy aircraft that can be piloted safely by many different kinds of people.

What is not a Light Sport Aircraft?
Aircraft that exceed the FAA requirements for Light Sport Aircraft (such as jet engine-propelled planes and aircraft over the weight requirement) are not considered Light Sport Aircraft. Similarly, any vehicle that does not meet minimum LSA requirements (such as an aircraft that can be classified in the ultralight category) is not considered a Light Sport Aircraft. Paragliders, hang gliders, multi-engine aircraft, helicopters, powered lifts, and any other complex aircraft with retractable gear or in-flight re-positionable pitched propellers are also not eligible for the LSA category.

What are the Sport Pilot privileges and limitations?
Sport pilots are generally restricted to flying in basic airspace that has no communication with air traffic control. This generally means that airspace around major national and international airports is off-limits. Many regional and local airports with less air traffic are open for takeoffs and landings.

Sport pilots are allowed to fly aircraft at up to 100 knots (but not faster) and elevations up to 10,000 feet (but not higher). While sport pilots may not fly for compensation or hire, they are allowed to carry a passenger.

While Sport pilot restrictions are enforced, the regulations have been designed to incorporate certain “building blocks”. With additional training and certification, pilots may be allowed to fly in more restricted airspace and at greater speeds. Cannot fly at night.

I have an old Champ. Can I fly it as a Sport Pilot under the LSA requirements?
Previously certificated aircraft can be piloted by a Sport Pilot. Some standard category aircraft (some early Cessnas, Pipers, Champs, etc.) will apply, as well as some experimental category aircraft (Kitfox, RANS, etc.), as long as they fit LSA definitions when originally certificated. Aircraft with modifications are not eligible, and only original certification definitions will apply. All previously certificated aircraft will need to fit LSA definitions and annual condition inspections will be required. FAA will provide a list of eligible aircraft on it’s website: http://www.faa.gov.

How do I register as a Sport Pilot?
The FAA has created a special airman application form for new sport pilot registration. To register you must be at least 17 years old and either meet Sport Pilot medical requirements OR have a valid U.S. driver’s license. You must complete 15 hours of flight training as well as 5 hours of solo flight. You must also successfully complete knowledge and practical tests. For more details or to begin the process, call us at L&L!

How do I become a Sport Pilot Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)?
Becoming a flight instructor is a rewarding way to give back to the flight community. To be certified as an instructor you must be at least 18 years old, be able to read and speak the English language, and meet all the requirements of registration as a sport pilot. You must have a recommendation from a current Certified Flight Instructor and successfully complete a Fundamentals of Instructing test as well as CFI knowledge and practical tests. There is a substantial total flight hours requirement. For more detailed information about Certified Flight Instructor Licensing, visit http://www.lightsportaircraft.com/qanda.html.

Can I fly with a SEL License?
Any certified single engine land rating in general aviation planes are already grandfathered in.

Do I need a medical pass?
Not necessarily. Sport pilot registration has been created so that a person may use a valid U.S. driver’s license in place of a medical pass. While there are restrictions to this allowance, it is generally true that if you have a current valid U.S. driver’s license, you may apply for sport pilot registration.

Whichever method a sport pilot uses to register, it is up to him or her to act responsibly and fly safely. Poor judgment can be more dangerous in an airplane than anywhere else.

If you ever failed or had your medical pass revoked you can not use your U.S. driver's license in place of a medical pass.

Am I allowed to perform maintenance on my LSA?
Yes, you are allowed to maintain your own aircraft, but you may not charge for services to maintain or repair another aircraft. To be licensed to perform inspections on an LSA, you must hold a current repairman certificate with an inspection rating. The same applies for someone who wishes to charge a fee for repair or maintenance services.