The FAA is edging its way toward tighter control of light sport aircraft (LSA) manufacturers. Under FAA 8130.2G Change 1, which took effect in July, FAA air safety inspectors (ASIs) and designated airworthiness inspectors (DARs) are required to notify FAA headquarters when a new LSA (make or model) is presented for their approval. Also, the inspectors must now notify FAA headquarters when a new company issues its first model.
This requirement is viewed by the industry as a ramp-up of FAA plans to conduct its own inspection of new LSAs for compliance with current approved standards set by ASTM. The FAA has created a group known as AIR-200 to oversee LSA conformity inspections.
