LSA vs. Experimental

by Bruce a schmidt

Jun 27, 2015

I am trying to find out the correct information on this, so if you are just speculating on the correct answer, don't bother. The question is: If a STOL CH750 is licensed as an experimental is it possible to change it back to an LSA or go from LSA to experimental. I have a private license which will allow flying a LSA whereas a LSA license will not allow private privileges (of course).  I heard that the max weight for LSA is 1320 but the CH750 can go 1440 lbs. as an experimental  ?.  Seems like it is just a paperwork problem and I suspect the FAA will not allow such things.

  • Phil Smith

    Before you get wrapped around the windsock with everyone's "two cents" and "their interpretation" of the various acronyms go to this site.  You have tried to combine several definitions into one.

    Go slow and understand that you are talking about three - or more - subjects here: light sport vs private pilot, and LSA vs the various registration descriptions ie E-AB, E-LSA etc.  In my understanding once the CH 750 - or any aircraft - is registered with a gross weight that's it - say the 750 registered as a E-AB with a GWT of 1440 it can not be changed back to the 1320 for LSA and vicea versa.

    http://www.sportaviationspecialties.com/Useful_Information.htm

    ttfn

    Still grinnin

    Phil Smith CH-701

    Buhl, ID

    Jun 27, 2015

  • James R Depfer Sr.

    Bruce,

    You may find the answers to some of your questions on the CH750 forum page (search "register LSA"). If I were you, I would also post your question on the forum, rather than the blog. I think you would get more views and responses.

    Jim

    Jun 28, 2015

  • William Wright

    First when you build your own plane it will be registered as Experimental Amateur Built (EAB).  Their is no place in the FAA paper work you fill out  to designate it as an LSA.  If you state that your gross weight as less 1320 lbs and your max airspeed is less than the max ( I don't recall the speed) and if it meets the other LSA requirements anyone with a sport pilot or above rating can legally fly it. What about the higher design gross weight?  Are you willing to  load it up to 1440 lbs and fly it?  Apparently most of the Carbon Cub customers are doing just that. Night flight is not allowed if you hold only a sport pilot rating, but why are all these builders putting lighting on the planes that meet the LSA specs? The FAA guy that gave me my airworthness certificate never said LSA.

    Jun 28, 2015