Sport Pilot: Private Pilot as Sport Pilot, Homebuilt LSA

FLYING Staff

Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 11:07 PM ET

Verified

Van's Aircraft RV-12 [Credit: Jim Koepnick / EAA]

Key Takeaways:

Private pilots transitioning to sport pilot operations for Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) do not need to notify authorities, can use a state driver's license in place of a medical certificate, and retain their ability to operate in controlled airspace (B, C, D) under sport pilot conditions (day VFR) if their private pilot license covers the aircraft category and class.
For homebuilt aircraft to qualify as an LSA, they must meet the LSA definition (e.g., specific weight limits) from their original certification and continuously thereafter; buyers must diligently verify records, and builders can make design choices to ensure compliance, but an aircraft that has ever been operated outside LSA parameters cannot subsequently be made eligible.

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Each month, Flying answers questions about the new Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft rule with assistance from the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), the authority on the opportunities available within the category commonly known as “Sport Pilot”:

Q: I currently hold a private pilot license with a third-class medical valid until September 2011. I’m about to complete an RV-12 and plan to fly as a sport pilot. I’d like to confirm that I do not need to notify anyone about this. Am I correct that all I have to do is to maintain currency and flight reviews? After my medical expires, can I continue to operate in Class B, C and D airspace as I have been under my PPL as long as I’m flying under sport pilot conditions (day VFR)?