The FAA has opened the public comment period for its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) governing the modernization of special airworthiness certificates (Mosaic), a move that is expected to expand opportunities for light sport aircraft (LSA), according to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). Comments on the NPRM are due on or by Oct. 23, 2023.
“Now that the NPRM is being released, we will study it closely and supply focused comments to ensure that the goals of this EAA-inspired initiative remain in the final language developed by the FAA,” said Jack Pelton, EAA chairman and CEO. “We appreciate the work of all those in the FAA who kept this process moving forward. EAA has led the effort on this initiative to expand freedoms while maintaining safety, and we will continue to push forward until it becomes reality.” Pelton said he expected additional discussion on the NPRM this week at the annual EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
EAA’s goals for Mosaic include changing LSA certification standards from arbitrary aircraft weight limitations to performance-based metrics, allowing for larger and more capable aircraft and permitting a wider range of students and instructors to fly them, significantly increasing access to flight training; removing the restriction that powered LSAs must have a reciprocating engine to enable future electric, hybrid, distributed-power, and other new propulsion technologies; and expansion of the sport pilot certificate to facilitate the operation of larger and more capable aircraft, which would also benefit higher-rated pilots operating under the privileges of a sport pilot certificate, enabling existing pilots to remain active in general aviation.