FAA Sport Pilot Airplane (SPA)RegulationsMedium
A sport pilot is comparing two airplanes for a flight. Airplane 1 has retractable landing gear and a controllable-pitch propeller. Airplane 2 has fixed landing gear and a fixed-pitch propeller. Both otherwise meet weight and speed limits. Which airplane may the sport pilot legally operate as a light-sport aircraft?
- AAirplane 2, because the LSA definition excludes retractable gear and controllable-pitch propellers (except gliders and airplanes intended for operation on water)
- BAirplane 1, provided the pilot holds an additional endorsement for complex airplanes
- CEither airplane, since gear and propeller type do not affect LSA classification
- DAirplane 1, because retractable gear improves performance within LSA limits
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Airplane 2, because the LSA definition excludes retractable gear and controllable-pitch propellers (except gliders and airplanes intended for operation on water)
14 CFR 1.1 defines a light-sport aircraft, in part, as having a single, reciprocating engine with a fixed or ground-adjustable propeller and fixed landing gear (except for gliders or aircraft intended for operation on water). Airplane 1's retractable gear and controllable-pitch prop disqualify it from meeting the LSA definition.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. No endorsement allows a sport pilot to operate an aircraft that fails to meet the LSA definition itself.
- C. Gear and propeller type are explicit criteria in the LSA definition and do matter.
- D. Retractable gear disqualifies an airplane from the LSA definition regardless of performance benefits.
LSA Definition — Gear & Propeller
To qualify as an LSA, an airplane must have fixed landing gear and a fixed or ground-adjustable pitch propeller (exceptions for gliders and aircraft for water operations).
- Retractable gear disqualifies an airplane (except water operations)
- Controllable-pitch propellers are not allowed
- Single reciprocating engine required
Memory trick: LSA = 'Fixed and Simple' — fixed gear, fixed prop