Private Pilot Training in an LSA?

FLYING Staff

Monday, October 16, 2006 at 08:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Light-sport aircraft (LSA) can be used for all pilot training levels, provided the aircraft is properly equipped and, for Special LSA (S-LSA), approved by the manufacturer.
Night flying in an LSA, even if equipped, depends on the aircraft's operating limitations and, for S-LSA, specific manufacturer approval; upgrading a "Day VFR only" LSA requires recurrent certification and manufacturer permission.
All pilots, including those with conventional pilot certificates, must comply with standard flight review and passenger landing currency requirements when operating light-sport aircraft.

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Each month, Flying answers questions about the new Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft rule with assistance from the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), the authorities on the opportunities available within the category commonly known as “Sport Pilot”:

Can a person earn a private pilot certificate in a light-sport aircraft exclusively, or must some of the training be in a more “conventional” aircraft?