During an (always) interesting conversation with USUA's Dale Hooper (pictured below), ANN learned that USUA is acting on a request from it's members, with the encouragement of the FAA Sport Pilot Branch (AFS-610). USUA is taking the lead in an action that will allow additional time for ultralight pilots and their vehicles, to transition into Sport Pilot.

Since the existing ultralight training programs have been extremely successful in training safe pilots throughout the years, USUA is also recommending that the exemptions allowing two place ultralights for training purposes, be extended as well.

These extensions to the timelines set forth in the Sport Pilot rule, should allow for an increasing number of participants in the new FAA program- and the continuation (albeit a temporary continuation) of a proven safe method for training pilots of these type of aircraft.

This action by USUA is in response to the slow-moving Sport Pilot implementation and transitioning process. Compounding the situation is the anticipated limited availability of certificated Special Light Sport Aircraft available for purchase over the next few years.

USUA realizes that not all members are planning on participating in the Sport Pilot program- opting instead, to return to the well loved single seat Part 103 ultralight. It is important to realize however, that many members enjoy flying fat or two seat ultralights.

This proposed petition would benefit both.

After the drafting of the petition is complete, USUA extends the opportunity to all other organizations operating FAA recognized ultralight training programs to sign on, and take advantage of the benefits it may provide for their members.

FMI: www.usua.org