Experimental Amateur-Built Aircraft
Experimental amateur-built or “homebuilt” aircraft require that the major portion of the fabrication and assembly tasks be performed by persons who are building the aircraft for their own education and recreation. (This is commonly referred to as the "51% rule".) These aircraft can be flown under the SP/LSA regulations as long as they meet the definition of a light-sport aircraft as called out in FAR Part 1.1 (see this page). These aircraft can be flown for sport or recreation, but can’t be used for flight training for hire or rental. In addition, the maintenance rules for these aircraft have not changed as a result of the sport pilot regulations.
Some examples of amateur-built or “homebuilt” aircraft that meet the definition of a LSA include Sonex, Kitfox Model IV, Pietenpol Aircamper, and the Zenith 601. For a complete listing of homebuilt aircraft that meet the LSA definition, click here.
Related topics:
What is a Light-Sport Aircraft? |
Special Light-Sport Aircraft listing |
Standard Category Aircraft Listing |
Experimental Light-Sport Aircraft (E-LSA) |
Converting an Ultralight (UL) Aircraft to an E-LSA |
E-LSA Conversion Kit |
Find a DAR (Designated Airworthiness Representative) |
Experimental Amateur-Built Aircraft |
Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) Maintenance Requirements |
Sport Pilot/Light-Sport Aircraft Insurance |
Light Aircraft and Manufacturer’s Association (LAMA)
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