Weight Increase Granted for Roadable Aircraft

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The FAA has granted Terrafugia's 'Transition' roadable aircraft an exemption, allowing a maximum takeoff weight of 1,430 pounds.
  • This increased limit, 110 pounds above the standard Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) maximum, accommodates essential federal motor vehicle safety features required for its ground operation.
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Terrafugia announced the FAA has granted an exemption to its ‘Transition’ roadable aircraft. Planned for approval to Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) status, the Transition would have been limited at 1,320 pounds maximum takeoff weight. But the FAA has granted an exemption allowing another 110 pounds for elements required by federal motor vehicle safety standards for ground operation, such as brakes, mirrors, airbags and crumple zones. The 1,430-pound limit also applies to amphibious LSAs.

Mark Phelps

Mark Phelps is a senior editor at AVweb. He is an instrument rated private pilot and former owner of a Grumman American AA1B and a V-tail Bonanza.

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