Sport Pilot Talk

I’m sure I’ve read this in the forum but I’m having trouble finding it today, I’m also wondering if the rules might have changed.

My question is:
Can one train for an Instrument Rating in a properly equipped LSA? Obviously one can’t fly into IMC in a Light Sport, but how about training? I was under the impression one could only take the Instrument Rating practical test in an aircraft that is Certified to fly into IMC, is this correct?

I’m putting in a new radio and wanted to know if it made sense to go with the GNC255 rather than the GTR200 for future training purposes. It isn’t a drop-in replacement, so it would be a much bigger deal to do when I wasn’t already having the panel redone.

Thanks for the help,
Craig

I don't think there is any problem taking the checkride in the LSA, as long as you have the required equipment. The aircraft must also have a current pitot/static system check along with a transponder check. Having all the required equipment and certifications for flying in the airspace system is different than being approved for flight in IMC.

I asked a similar question a while back -- one thing to keep in mind (assuming you have an SLSA and not an ELSA) is that you need the manufacturer's LoA to install equipment that didn't originally come with the airplane. (Not sure if you need the LoA if it's a direct replacement using identical equipment...)

AJChenMPH wrote:I asked a similar question a while back -- one thing to keep in mind (assuming you have an SLSA and not an ELSA) is that you need the manufacturer's LoA to install equipment that didn't originally come with the airplane. (Not sure if you need the LoA if it's a direct replacement using identical equipment...)

It is my understanding that any change in equipment from how it was delivered from the factory needs a LoA.

Yes, of course, an LOA is necessary to modify an S-LSA. I’m already swapping out the radio as well as the EFIS, Transponder, A/P Servos, etc. and needed an LOA for all that, not a big deal to amend.

Has anyone trained in and/or received their IFR rating in a Light Sport Aircraft?

cogito wrote:.... not a big deal to amend.

My understanding is that this very much depends on the manufacturer. Some, I hear, are very reluctant to issue an LOA. Some will, but only after a very hefty "engineering fee" is paid. Some are great to work with.

Merlinspop wrote:

cogito wrote:.... not a big deal to amend.

My understanding is that this very much depends on the manufacturer. Some, I hear, are very reluctant to issue an LOA. Some will, but only after a very heft "engineering fee" is paid. Some are great to work with.

I should clarify, getting an LOA is not a big deal for my particular situation. I've already received two LOAs and the manufacturer is keen to get my avionics sorted as the setup the plane came with has been unreliable.

Have any of you even heard of someone getting their IFR rating done in a Light Sport?
Thanks again for the help.

IIRC the examiner I use mentioned someone doing a IFR ride in a Allegro.

Doesn't Prof. Shuch use a Light Sport for Instrument training?

That's encouraging 3Dreaming.

Dr. Seti? Your councel would be greatly appreciated.

I do use my SportStar for instrument training (strictly in VMC, under visual flight rules, of course). But, I have never had a student take an instrument check ride in it, so don't know how a DPE would react.

drseti wrote:I do use my SportStar for instrument training (strictly in VMC, under visual flight rules, of course). But, I have never had a student take an instrument check ride in it, so don't know how a DPE would react.

Thanks Paul. I was just reading in the Aviation Instructors Handbook (trying to decide which rating to go for next,) "The safety record of pilots who hold instrument ratings is significantly better than that of pilots with comparable flight time who have never received formal flight training for an instrument rating." I wonder just how much better.

I shot the DPE that I've used a text message and asked her - her response:

"Sounds like fun, when do you want to go do it?"

... ymmv...

theskunk wrote:I shot the DPE that I've used a text message and asked her - her response:

"Sounds like fun, when do you want to go do it?"

... ymmv...

she's a keeper!

theskunk wrote:I shot the DPE that I've used a text message and asked her - her response:

"Sounds like fun, when do you want to go do it?"

... ymmv...

She's a DPE for Prive, Instrument, etc., not only for Sport Pilot?

Thanks for the help Mr. Skunk.