The Sport Pilot Rules

The Sport Pilot Rules, developed by the FAA with input from various aviation groups, provide access to aviation for more people than ever before. The rules are pretty simple with a few confusing gray areas but be that as it may, it does give more of us the ability to fly.

If you want to read the actual FAA regulation you can get it here. FAA Regulations The following is a list from the FAA outlining the rule.Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Private Pilot KnowledgeTests

1. Q. What is the age requirement to take the sport pilot, recreational pilot,or private pilot knowledge test?

A. An applicant must be at least 15 years of age to take the test, although applicants for the balloon or glider tests must be 14 years of age. Prior to taking the knowledge test, an applicant shall be asked to present a birth certificate or other official documentation as evidence of meeting the age requirement.

2. Q. What aircraft can I fly as a sport pilot?

A. You are limited to flying an aircraft that meets the definition of a lightsport aircraft (LSA). An LSA is any certificated aircraft that meets the following performance parameters:

1,320 pounds Maximum Gross Weight (1,430 pounds for seaplanes)

45 knots (51 mph) Max Landing Configuration Stall

120 knots (138 mph) Max. Straight & Level

Single or Two seat Aircraft

Fixed Pitch or Ground Adjustable Propeller

Fixed Landing Gear (except for amphibious aircraft)

3. Q. What are the restrictions on a sport pilot?

A. Sport pilots cannot make flights:

• at night;

• in controlled airspace unless you receive training and a logbookendorsement;

• outside the U.S. without advance permission from that country(ies);

• for the purpose of sight-seeing with passengers for charity fundraisers;

• above 10,000' MSL;

• when the flight or surface visibility is less than 3 statute miles;

• unless you can see the surface of the Earth for flight reference;

• in LSA with a maximum speed in level flight with maximumcontinuous power (Vh) of greater than 87 knots (100 mph), unless youreceive training and a logbook endorsement;

• if the operating limitations issued with the aircraft do not permit thatactivity;

• contrary to any limitation listed on the pilot’s certificate, U.S. driver’s license, FAA medical certificate, or logbook endorsement(s); and

• while carrying a passenger or property for compensation or hire (no commercial operations).

In a simpler note it means the following:

one passenger

no retractable gear

no in flight adjustable props

has to be under 1320lbs gross weight

no night flying

has to stall at 51mph or less

can't fly faster than 138mph

That's most of the flying we do anyway. If yo have any questions about the rule please feel free to contact me. I'm not the expert on Sport Pilot Rules but I'll get the answer for you one way or the other.

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