Light Sport Aircraft

Light Sport Airplanes built to be safe, fun, and affordable

In creating the new Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) classification of planes in 2004, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) filled the much-needed performance and price gap between less sophisticated ultralight aircraft and larger, more complex transportation focused aircraft. Since LSA are targeted to recreational pilots who primarily fly for fun, LSA are designed to be affordable, lightweight, and easy to operate. All Searey seaplanes are classified as S-LSA (special-light sport aircraft), which are factory built, ready-to-fly aircraft. All LSA are inspected and receive an airworthiness certificate from the FAA prior to flight.

• 1,320 pounds (598.74 kg) maximum takeoff weight (1,430 pounds for seaplanes) (648.64 kg)

• Maximum airspeed of 120 knots (138 mph) (222 kmh)

• Maximum two-person seating capacity (pilot + passenger)

• Single, reciprocating engine

• Fixed or ground-adjustable propeller

• Non-pressurized cabin

• Fixed landing gear (retractable gear allowed for seaplanes)

• Maximum stall speed of 45 knots (52 mph) (83 kmh)

For more information, visit the EAA at sportpilot.org and the AOPA at aopa.org