The FAA says the Terrafugia Transition can now be called a light sport aircraft despite the fact that its maximum weight is 370 pounds greater than the standard LSA 1,430-pound limit. Terrafugia petitioned the agency for the exemption to use the LSA label for a street-legal version of the aircraft back in 2014. Although the Transition can be flown like a traditional two-place aircraft, the pilot can also fold its wings after landing to allow it to operate over the same roads as any automobile.
FAA Approves Terrafugia Petition for LSA Certification
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA granted an exemption for the Terrafugia Transition to be classified as a Light Sport Aircraft (LSA), despite exceeding the standard weight limit by 370 pounds.
- The weight increase accommodates enhanced automotive safety features, such as a safety cage and crumple zones, to improve occupant protection.
- Terrafugia's analysis suggests these integrated safety features and the ability to drive in adverse weather could significantly reduce accident severity, fatalities, and the overall number of incidents compared to traditional LSAs.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
