W&B 4-2

Figure 4-1. Examples of light sport aircraft (from top left, clockwise): weight-shift control, powered parachute, glider, airplanes, hot air balloon, and amateur-built LSA. LSA Definition of Term LSA is a category of simple, very basic, small, light-weight, low-performance aircraft, other than a helicopter or powered- lift, and a classification of aircraft specific to the United States. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) defines LSA as an aircraft with a maximum gross takeoff weight of not more than 1,320 pounds (600 kg) for aircraft not intended for operation over water, or 1,430 pounds (650 kg) for aircraft intended for operation over water; a maximum airspeed in level flight of 120 knots (220 kilometers per hour (km/h); 140 miles per hour (mph)); a maximum stall speed of 45 knots (83 km/h; 52 mph); a maximum seating capacity of no more than two persons (including the pilot); fixed undercarriage and fixed-pitch or ground-adjustable propeller; and a single reciprocating engine (if powered). An aircraft that qualifies as LSA may be operated by the holder of a sport pilot certificate, whether registered as LSA or not. Pilots with a private, recreational, or higher pilot certificate may also fly LSA, even if their medical certificate have expired, as long as they have a valid driver’s license to prove that they are in good enough health to fly. LSA also have less restrictive maintenance requirements and may be maintained and inspected by traditionally certificated aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs) or by individuals holding