Brazil Expands LSA Regs for Larger, Faster Aircraft

The updated rules for light sport aircraft bring the South American country closer to international standards.

Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 02:41 PM ET

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Brazil’s ANAC has expanded LSA classification beyond two-seaters like this Bristell, to allow airplanes with up to four seats and a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of up to 1,361 kg (3,000 pounds). [Courtesy: BRM Aero]

Key Takeaways:

Brazil's ANAC has significantly expanded its Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) regulations to include larger, more powerful aircraft.
The new rules permit LSAs to have up to four seats, a maximum takeoff weight of 1,361 kg (3,000 pounds), electric motors, and variable-pitch propellers.
These changes aim to reduce the cost for approving new LSA designs while maintaining safety standards, aligning with ASTM International guidelines.
The updated Brazilian LSA definition is substantially broader than current U.S. FAA regulations.

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Brazil’s national aviation regulator, Agência Nacional de Aviação Civil (ANAC), has announced new rules for light sport aircraft (LSA) to include larger, more powerful aircraft.

Approved in July as amendments to Brazilian Civil Aviation Regulations (RBAC) No. 1 and No. 21, the changes allow airplanes with up to four seats and a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of up to 1,361 kg (3,000 pounds) to be classified as LSAs. Electric motors are also allowed for propulsion under the new LSA regulations, as well as variable-pitch propellers.