here’s the deal.

(at least part of it)

light-sport aircraft

Light-Sport Aircraft all adhere to the definition of “Light-Sport” in 14 CFR Part 1.1. Generally an aircraft (other than helicopter or powered-lift) with a maximum takeoff weight of 1,320 lbs (1,430 lb if water-borne), a maximum continuous sea level standard speed of no more than 120 knots CAS, a maximum clean stall speed of 45 knots CAS, a single engine, maximum seating capacity of 2, non-pressurized cabin, and other specifications depending upon its configuration. Many aircraft adhere to this definition, some of them formerly classified as ultra-lights. Not all are “airplanes.” They are meant to be safe and simple.

light-sport airplanes

Airplanes that adhere to the definition of a light-sport aircraft (LSA) can be certified with a “Standard” Airworthiness Certificate, like many Cessna 150’s, or a “Special” Airworthiness Certificate, like some Van’s RV-12’s. The “Special” group is further divided into “Experimental LSA’s” (E-LSA) and “Special LSA’s” (S-LSA), depending upon who manufactured them. All E-LSA and S-LSA are initially manufactured to internationally developed and FAA-accepted ASTM standards. S-SLA’s are built wholly by the manufacturer, while E-LSA’s are at least partially built by the owner to the manufacturer’s specifications. Don’t confuse E-LSA’s with “Experimental Amateur Built” (EAB), which are all “home-built” aircraft. A Van’s RV-12 (and many other airplanes) can be either an EAB, E-LSA or S-LSA, depending upon who built it.

sport pilot certificates

Pilots who want to earn a Sport Pilot Certificate can do so at a Flight School (like ours) using an S-LSA, they can join certain flying clubs (where they actually own a portion of an LSA) or learn with an instructor in their own LSA. Once they have earned their Sport Pilot certificate, they can fly ANY airplane meeting the LSA definition, including that Standard certificated Cessna 150, within the privileges, limitations and endorsements of their Sport Pilot certificate. Learn more about the details of a Sport Pilot Certificate here.