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TRANSITIONING FROM ULTRALIGHT TO SPORT PILOT This week, in a continuing examination of the new Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft rule now in effect, we will discuss transitioning from the ultralight pilot category to the new sport pilot category of licensed pilot. If you have specific comments to share please contact me at any of the ways listed below. Anyone currently registered as an ultralight pilot now has an opportunity to receive the sport pilot certificate. Ultralight pilots who registered on or before September lst will receive credit for the required aeronautical knowledge, flight proficiency, and aeronautical experience. The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) only requirement will be for you to demonstrate that you have the knowledge and ability to exercise the privileges of sport pilot. Certain conditions must be followed. You must be at least 17 years old (16 for glider or balloon). You must obtain a copy of your ultralight pilot records from the FAA-recognized organization that you an registered with. You must successfully pass an FAA sport pilot knowledge test administered by an FAA testing facility. You must successfully pass an FAA sport pilot practical test, which includes an oral and flight test administered by a sport pilot examiner. The rules are similar for transitioning from ultralight instructor or examiner to sport pilot instructor or examiner. There are also guidelines for transitioning from an ''ultralight vehicle" to an experimental light sport aircraft. All ultralights have an opportunity to obtain an N-number (registration number) and an airworthiness certificate to become an FAA-registered aircraft. You don't need to be the original builder. The FAA's goal is to have all ultralights that do not meet the definition of a Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 103 single-seat ultralight convert to an experimental light-sport aircraft (E-LSA) by August 31,2007. The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is now set up to help guide flyers through the process and can help you to prepare. The easy steps to convert your ultralight to an experimental light sport aircraft are as follows: apply for an N-number (EAA can help); prepare a weight and balance report for your aircraft (EAA can help); install an emergency locator transmitter (ELT) on all two-seat airplanes (powered parachutes and weight-shift not required and single-seat is optional); prepare your ultralight for inspection; make an appointment with an FAA airworthiness inspector or a designated airworthiness representative (DAR). Check www.eaa.org or call (888) 322-4636 to find the nearest DAR; and have your aircraft inspected. For current and updated information, monitor www.SportPilot.org. |