LSA Weight Requirements

[wilmayo]

The current LSA rules say that your plane cannot exceed 1320 lbs gross weight (on wheels). Is that the same as max t/o weight in a plane's specs? Or do the LSA rules just mean that you can't fly with a weight exceeding 1320 even if the plane's specs say it can carry more?
Thanks.

[Eric Page]

The LSA limits are maximum gross takeoff weight (MGTOW):

1,320# for a land plane
1,430# for a float plane/amphibian

Any plane that ever had an airworthiness certificate that listed a MGTOW greater than those values is not LSA eligible and cannot be flown by a Sport Pilot.

Here's an AOPA Frequently Asked Questions page about Sport Pilot privileges and LSA aircraft.

Big changes are on the way regarding the definition of LSA and the privileges of Sport Pilots. See this video from two weeks ago for the latest updates.

[Maverick]

With regard to the increasing the gross weight, I thought that only the builder could increase the weight. Is that not correct? And, if that is not correct, then who legally could do it?
Mav

[109JB]

With regard to the increasing the gross weight, I thought that only the builder could increase the weight. Is that not correct? And, if that is not correct, then who legally could do it?
Mav

Anyone can reenter phase 1 and change the gross weight. Not limited to just the builder.

[wilmayo]

Thanks. So, it is based on what is cited on the air worthiness certificate. I had not seen or heard it stated that way. I guess that means the KF5 and 6 can't be flown by LSA pilots (currently)?

[Eric Page]

If certificated at the factory weights of 1,400 or 1,550#, no, but there are some out there that were done at 1,320# for that reason.

[jrevens]

The structural load limits, for example +6 & -3 G's, are initially determined and set by the designer at a specific gross weight, usually with a small margin for safety factor - but not necessarily. Structural analysis and test flights are part of the process. If you go above that weight limit, the load limits decrease linearly. That means that an abrupt maneuver, turbulence or a hard landing, for instance, can create permanent deformation or failure of structure more easily and at a lower G force. With an experimental amateur built airplane you can set that weight at whatever you want to, but be aware that your structural load limits will be decreased.

[wilmayo]

Thanks. I appreciate the information.

[109JB]

The airworthiness certificate does not list the gross weight. The only place it will be is in the operating limitations or maintenance records. If it was ever over 1320 it is not lsa eligible

[Eric Page]

Thanks, John. You're absolutely right, of course!