A Look At The Near-Term Prospects For America's Newest Pilot Rating

By ANN Correspondent John Ballantyne

Here's what the FAA has planned for early 2005:

January

FAA plans to provide Form 8710-1, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application - Sport Pilot will be available. Guidelines for issuance and endorsements published. By January 15 FAA hopes to be ready to issue the first certificates for the following Sport Pilots, Sport Pilot instructors (CFIs), Factory-built light-sport aircraft (Special Light-Sport Aircraft or S-Light Sport Aircraft), Light-Sport Aircraft repairmen (maintenance and inspection ratings), Ratings for Private Pilots who have additional training in weight-shift aircraft or powered parachutes, Applications accepted for additional category & class privileges for sport pilots and sport pilot CFIs.

Also Slated For January 2005

Initial Designated Pilot Examiner (Sport Pilot and Sport Pilot Flight Instructor Examiners courses begin, AC 61.65 (revision) - Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors - Policy and guidance to flight instructors for conducting proficiency checks and endorsement requirements.

February 2005 And Beyond

FAA is scheduled to complete AC 61-XX - Sport and Light-Sport Aircraft Advisory Circular - Policy and Guidance to industry on aircraft and airman certification, and maintenance and inspection requirements for light-sport aircraft and pilots operating light-sport aircraft. DAR and DPE courses as needed. Education focusing on Sport Pilot Flight Instructor privileges and responsibilities, registering and maintaining light sport aircraft.

FMI www.afs600.faa.gov/AFS610.htm