Certification and service entry of the first dedicated light-sport aircraft in the USA is not expected for about six months, despite the recent adoption of new sport pilot rules.
Speaking at its annual AirVenture air show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin last week, the US Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) said a delay until next year is likely to allow for materials testing on new aircraft.
Although the sport pilot/light-sport aircraft rule was published last week by the US Federal Aviation Administration (Flight International, 20-26 July), the American Society of Testing and Materials now has to refine the consensus standards for the design and production of the two-seat aircraft.
"Once the rule takes effect on 1 September," says the EAA, "industry must develop standards for each light-sport aircraft type and the manufacturer must build in accordance with those standards."
KATE SARSFIELD / OSHKOSH
Source: Flight International
