Flying planes is fun and challenging. Becoming a sport pilot is one step towards your big dreams. However, there are limitations to observe when flying an LSA. It may be the cheapest pilot license to obtain, but when the rules you have to follow indicates that being a sport pilot is only for leisure.
Sport pilots must only fly in altitudes that are below 10,000 feet. FAA will allow you to operate a light-sport aircraft because this airspace will not require you to communicate with the air traffic control.
What Aircraft Models Can a Sport Pilot Operate?
If you want to buy a light-sport aircraft, here are the following aircraft models that a sport pilot can operate:
- Aeronca
- Piper Cubs
- Ercoupes
- Luscombe’s
How Far Can a Sport Pilot Fly?
A sport pilot can only fly at airports with no towers. Sport pilots also know that operating a plane at night is a severe violation of the FAA rules, let alone allow more than one passenger inside the LSA. You cannot work your plane within class A, B, C, and D airspace. It requires the completion of additional training if you want to do so. Sport pilots cannot operate outside the United States.
Do Sport Pilot Hours Count Towards Private Pilot?
Some sport pilot students want to proceed to obtain a private pilot certificate. Maybe you don’t want to fly a light-sport aircraft alone and want to explore other aviation models. You can continue to work on your private pilot certificate after you have your sport pilot certificate. It allows you to obtain your FAA certificate with half the time and money. It is also the perfect arrangement if you want to avoid the busy airports and the stress of trying to learn how to communicate with a tower.
Can You Continue Sport Pilot Training for Private Pilot Training?
It is possible to use your single time in a sport pilot to obtaining the required solo time for a private pilot license. That way, you don’t have to go through the same lessons again and focus on advancing your skills and handling more complex aircraft models. Your knowledge to fly a light-sport aircraft can be useful in your training as a private pilot.
There are recognized aviation schools that allow you to transition from a sports pilot to a private pilot.
