An increase in the weight limit for LSAs from 1,320 pounds to more than 3,000 could be coming before the end of 2019 or in 2020 according to news published by both the EAA and AOPA. Should that weight limit become a permanent part of the LSA guidelines along with a number of expanded pilot privileges, a sport pilot certificate holder might be able to fly an aircraft that weighs considerably more than the current legal weight limit. But the intricacies of a weight change are just one possibility under the FAA’s Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certificates rulemaking efforts rolled out by the agency during AirVenture 2018.
LSA Weight Limits Could Change as Part of a New NPRM
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA is proposing to significantly increase the weight limit for Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) from 1,320 pounds to over 3,000 pounds under its Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certificates (MOSAIC) rulemaking.
- A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) was anticipated as early as January 2019, with potential changes coming by late 2019 or 2020.
- These changes aim to offer expanded pilot privileges for sport pilot certificate holders, greater flexibility for kit aircraft construction, and could allow electric aircraft into the LSA category.
- Eligibility for sport pilots to operate heavier aircraft will depend on multiple factors, including stall speed, complexity, and cruise speed, not just weight alone.
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