sportpilotlicens

The sport pilot license (SPL) is a pilot certificate issued by the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that authorizes the holder to operate light-sport aircraft (LSA). Introduced in the mid-2000s as part of the FAA’s light-sport rule set, the SPL is designed to provide a more affordable and shorter path to flight for recreational pilots.

Scope and aircraft

An SPL permits flight in light-sport aircraft that conform to the FAA’s LSA category. LSAs are generally limited by design and performance rules, including maximum takeoff weight and other criteria, and are typically two-seat or single-seat aircraft designed for sport flying. The certificate does not authorize operation of aircraft outside the LSA category or operations under instrument flight rules unless the pilot later obtains additional ratings or certificates.

Requirements and process

To pursue an SPL, a candidate must be at least 16 years old. Training requirements include a minimum total flight time of about 20 hours, with at least 15 hours of flight instruction and at least 5 hours of solo flight. The program includes a sport pilot knowledge test and a practical test (checkride) with an FAA-designated examiner. Training emphasizes flight skills, navigation, and aeronautical decision making appropriate to LSAs.

Medical and privileges

Sport pilots are not required to hold an FAA medical certificate. Instead, they must hold a current valid state-issued driver’s license as a form of medical eligibility, and they must not have disqualifying medical conditions. SPL privileges are typically limited to daylight, visual flight rules (VFR) operations in accordance with the LSA’s approvals; instrument or night operations require additional certifications or ratings.

International context

The term sport pilot license is specific to the United States. Other countries may have different routes to recreational flying or similar “sport” categories, with varying medical and flight-hour requirements.