FAQ: What You Need To Know About Light Sport Aviation?

What is needed for light sport aircraft?

Driver’s license and the student pilot certificate: The Sport Pilot rule allows a pilot to fly light – sport aircraft without the need for an FAA medical certificate. However, a sport pilot must hold at least a current and valid U.S. driver’s license in order to exercise this privilege.

What are the light sport aircraft rules?

The Light Sport Aircraft Rule:

Max. Gross Takeoff Weight	1,320 lbs (1,430 lbs for seaplanes)
Max. Stall Speed	51 mph / 45 knots CAS
Max. Speed in Level Flight (VH)	138 mph / 120 knots CAS
Seats	Two (max.)
Engines / Motors	One (max. if powered.)

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What are the limitations of a light sport aircraft?

You can fly in class E and G airspace. You can fly aircraft that meet the definition of light – sport aircraft ( LSA ) Some limitations include:

• You cannot fly for compensation or hire.
• You can fly up to 10,000 ft MSL, or 2,000 ft AGL, whichever is higher.
• You can not fly at night.
• You cannot tow any object.

Can you fly a light sport aircraft with a private pilot license?

You should know that any current private pilot may fly a light – sport aircraft ( LSA ) they are qualified for without a FAA medical but using their drivers license as medical eligibility. To be a “current pilot ” you need a biennial flight review ( flight review every 2 years) same as all pilots need to be current.

How far can a sport pilot fly?

Yes, there will be some operational limitations with flying on a sport pilot certificate. You cannot fly at night or in some of the busiest US airspace without additional training and instructor endorsements, and you can ‘t fly higher than 10,000 feet or fly in the pursuit of business.

What can I fly with a sport license?

The holder of a valid sport pilot certificate may:

• Operate as pilot in command of a sport pilot eligible aircraft.
• Carry a single passenger and share expenses (fuel, oil, airport expenses, and aircraft rental).
• Fly during the daytime using visual flight rules (VFR).
• Fly Cross-country anywhere in the U.S.

What is the best light sport aircraft?

Big Thrills, Small Planes: The Best Light Sport Aircraft

• 1 of 18. Legend Cub Amphibian.
• 2 of 18. Evektor Harmony.
• 3 of 18. Tecnam P92 Taildragger.
• 4 of 18. Lockwood Aircraft AirCam.
• 5 of 18. CubCrafters Sport Cub S2.
• 6 of 18. Diamond HK36 Super Dimona.
• 7 of 18. FK-Lightplanes FK12 Comet.
• 8 of 18. ERCO Ercoupe.

Can you fly light sport aircraft at night?

According to the FAA Order 8130.2G CHG 1 which covers LSA certification: (5) This aircraft is to be operated under VFR, day only, unless appropriately equipped for night and/or instrument flight in accordance with 14 CFR § 91.205, and when allowed by the manufacturer’s operating instructions.

How much is a light sport aircraft?

So, you’re wondering how much does a light sport airplane, also known as a light – sport aircraft ( LSA ) cost? A sport plane can cost a minimum of about $20,000 or more. You can spend up to $140,000 for the top of the line with all the bells and whistles. There is a large price range similar to automobiles.

Can you travel in a light sport aircraft?

As a Sport Pilot, you can only fly a qualified Light Sport Aircraft ( LSA ). These aircraft have a single engine and a maximum of 2 seats. They must weigh less than 1,320 pounds and can fly no faster than 138 miles per hour. You will not be permitted to fly at night or though clouds, and you must stay below 10,000 feet.

Can a sport pilot get an instrument rating?

Yes, a way exists. At Sebring 2017 in January, I flew in a well-equipped LSA with Bristell USA’s John Rathmell. John is a highly experienced pilot knowledgeable about Bristell’s IFR option.

What is the max weight for light sport aircraft?

The FAA defines a light sport aircraft as an aircraft, other than a helicopter or powered lift, that since its original certification, has continued to meet the following: Max. gross takeoff weight: 1,320 lbs (600 kg) or 1,430 lbs for seaplanes (650 kg) Max.

What can I fly with a private pilot license?

Pilots who hold a recreational pilot’s license are limited to flying aircraft which have no more than 180 horsepower. However, private pilots are permitted to fly airplanes possessing 200. Recreational pilots may fly only in Class G and E airspace unless they are over mountainous terrain.

What is the easiest pilot’s license to get?

A sport pilot is the easiest and least restrictive certificate a student can obtain. It’s meant for those pilots who wish to fly in light aircraft only, at low altitudes in their local area.

What aircraft can I fly without a license?

According to federal regulations, a powered ultralight is an aircraft that weighs less than 254 pounds, carries a maximum 5 gal. of gas, doesn’t fly faster than 63 mph and seats only one person. You can legally fly it without a pilot’s license, without training — without any qualifications at all.