EAA Sport Aviation - October 2009

advocacy update

S-LSA Hits 100

New Amateur-Built Policy Set for Release

EARL LAWRENCE, EAA 265455

EAA Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs

The sport pilot/light-sport aircraft (SP/LSA) move- ment hit another milestone recently with the certi- fication of the 100th model of an S-LSA. The success of the LSA movement shows that the spirit of aviation continues to thrive within the hearts and minds of many. The large number of new aircraft is evidence that when a properly structured regulatory environment is created, dreams do turn into reality.

The focus of your advocacy team is not only to protect the privileges we have, but also to reduce regulatory barriers to participation. Witnessing the certification of a hundred new aircraft models in less than five years is a tremendous accomplishment. All EAA members should be proud of the role we played in creating an environment for fulfillment of hundreds of dreams. Considering the worldwide economic crisis, this innovation and creativity is even more impressive. It inspires us all, pilots and enthusiasts alike, to ensure the future of aviation is as bright as possible.

Release of New Amateur-Built Policy

As this issue goes to print, the FAA is preparing to publish a final set of policies, procedures, and advisory materials for the certification of amateur-built aircraft. Weeks ago Dick VanGrunsven and I, as co-chairs of the Amateur-built Aircraft Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC), signed off on the report that will be part of the FAA release.

As I share highlights of the final ARC report, bear in mind that this report is not the final word, but it does reflect the thoughts of the committee members; that is, both the FAA and industry. In short the report states:

• The privilege to build any kind of flying machine regardless of size, complexity, materials, or power remains as long as the majority portion of the aircraft is built solely for one’s education and recreation.

• Previously FAA evaluated and accepted kits will not be re-evaluated.

• The proposed 20/20/11 formula was withdrawn. This formula would have required builders to document that

they performed 20 percent fabrication, 20 percent assembly, and another 11 percent either fabrication or assembly on their aircraft.

This effort has been one of the most challenging I have been involved with since joining EAA’s staff in 1994. I say this not because of the challenge of working with government agencies, but rather because of the challenge of representing EAA members on an issue that has such diverse opinions. I believe the new FAA policies will strike an acceptable balance for most in the homebuilt community. I assure members that EAA staff will continue to advocate for ways to lower the barriers to participation in homebuilding

All EAA members should be proud

of the role we played in creating an

environment for fulfillment of hundreds

of dreams.

and aviation. Just because this effort is complete, our work has not ended. We will continue to seek avenues that foster innovation and turn aviation dreams into realities. I thank members for your interest and participation in the long process and encourage you all to study the new policies.

This month’s Technical Counselor column (page 98) provides more details on this new policy, including a link to a web page where more specific questions will be answered. I’m sure there will be a lively debate amongst members on this issue in the Oshkosh365 forum, too, and I encourage you to review those comments. Please look to future issues of EAA Sport Aviation and additions to www.EAA.org for an in-depth review of the final policy.