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The FAA has introduced a whole new classification of aircraft called Light Sport Aircraft, or LSA for short. Any certified pilot is authorized to fly an LSA aircraft.
Aircraft which qualify as LSA may be operated by holders of the new FAA Sport Pilot License. Getting your Sport pilot license is a less expensive way to learn to fly and earn your wings!
The FAA defines a light sport aircraft as an aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of less than 1320 pounds for aircraft designed to operate from land, or 1,430 pounds for seaplanes. LSA aircraft cannot exceed a maximum airspeed, in level flight of 120 knots (138 mph), and have a maximum stall speed of 45 knots (52 mph). LSA can contain either one or two seats; fixed undercarriage, fixed-pitch or ground adjustable propeller, and a single reciprocating engine.
What is unique about an LSA Rating is that only 20 hours of flight training are required and an FAA medical certificate is not required. A Sport Pilot need only have a valid state driver's license for identification requirements.