Pilots Have Questions When It Comes to MOSAIC

Here’s an overview of the proposed MOSAIC regulations and some opinions provided during the comment period.

Dan Johnson

Friday, March 15, 2024 at 08:49 AM ET

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An AirCam flies low and slow out West over the desert. [Courtesy: Lockwood Aviation]

Key Takeaways:

MOSAIC significantly broadens the capabilities of aircraft with special airworthiness certificates by removing weight limits, increasing stall speed, allowing up to four seats, retractable gear, adjustable props, higher speeds, and enabling new propulsion types (electric, turbine) and aircraft categories (helicopters, gyroplanes).
The proposal raises significant concerns for pilots regarding medical certificate requirements for operating these expanded aircraft under sport pilot privileges, particularly due to inconsistencies that currently hinder night and IFR flight access for sport pilots.
Further industry apprehension stems from new noise regulations, specific stall speed limitations, potential reductions in owner maintenance privileges, and uncertainty for maintenance training, leading some to view the NPRM as "rushed to market" with unresolved conflicts.

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MOSAIC (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification) is a regulation that affects all aircraft with special airworthiness certificates. Aircraft built by Cessna, Piper, Cirrus, Diamond, and others instead have standard certificates, and their new models remain untouched by this proposed regulation.

In contrast, all light sport aircraft (LSA), experimental amateur-built airplanes, and warbirds are issued special certificates. In my view, the rule can be divided into two main parts: airplane descriptions and capabilities, and pilot certificates, technician privileges, and operating limitations. In short, airplanes or people.