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Sport Pilot Aircraft
What Makes a Light Sport Aircraft Different?Light Sport Aircraft
Sport pilots are flying a whole new category of airplane... the light sport aircraft, or LSA for short. Although there are many classes and categories of LSA, for purposes of this article, we're referring to E-LSA (home-built kits) and S-LSA (factory built aircraft). The majority of LSA out there today are relatively new, modern, airplanes, but there are a few older aircraft that also meet the FAA's LSA definition. In this case, sport pilots can operate these older aircraft as LSA, but the aircraft itself remains airworthy under its original type certificate and must be maintained as such. Read more about sport pilot licenses.
LSA Limitations
Light sport aircraft are limited to single engine (either reciprocating or electric, but not jet) planes with a maximum gross takeoff weight of 1,320 lbs (that's everything... people, plane, cargo, and fuel), a maximum airspeed of 120 knots indicated, a maximum stall speed of 45 knots indicated, a maximum of two seats, and fixed landing gear and propeller, or a ground adjustable propeller.
Light Sport Aircraft Maintenance
To help reduce operating costs, LSA have less strict rules regarding maintenance than their larger brethren. Of course, an FAA certified A&P mechanic can work on your LSA, but you also have more options. You can attend two days of training and earn a Repairman: Light Sport certificate and work on LSA, and in other cases owners are allowed to work on their LSA without formal training (under certain conditions). Research sport pilot training.