Light Sport Aircraft Buyer's Guide

Why Light Sport Aircraft: Simplicity, Affordability, and Accessibility

Light Sport Aircraft offer the most accessible path to aircraft ownership. Simplified regulations, lower costs, reduced training requirements, and forgiving handling make LSA perfect for recreational pilots seeking fun, affordable flying.

Sport Pilot License - Simplified Path

Sport Pilot License requires only 40-50 hours training (vs 60-70 for Private Pilot). No medical certificate needed - use your driver's license. Simplified knowledge requirements. Perfect for recreational pilots who don't need complex flying skills.

Exceptional Affordability

LSA aircraft cost $35-100K used, significantly cheaper than comparable certified aircraft. Operating costs lowest in general aviation. Insurance, maintenance, and fuel economical. True affordable flying.

Simple, Reliable Aircraft

LSA aircraft feature simple, proven systems. Modern materials, basic avionics, straightforward maintenance. Easy to understand and maintain. Perfect for pilots who want flying without complexity.

Strong Community Support

Popular LSA brands (Tecnam, Evektor, Diamond) have established communities. Excellent parts availability, support networks, and shared knowledge. Active LSA fly-in community nationwide.

Light Sport Aircraft Definition & Limits

Official LSA Category

FAA defines Light Sport Aircraft with these limits:

• Maximum empty weight: 1,320 lbs (600 kg)
• Maximum speed: 120 knots (138 mph)
• Fixed landing gear (with rare exceptions)
• Fixed-pitch propeller (with rare exceptions)
• Single/two occupants
• Simple systems

Repurposed Aircraft

Some certified aircraft (like Diamond DA20) can be operated as LSA if they meet all criteria. Provides both options: fly as certified aircraft or as LSA (more flexible, simplified approach).

Popular LSA Aircraft

Tecnam P2008 ($40-100K)

Italian-built light sport aircraft. Known for reliability, simplicity, and fuel economy. Rotax engines. Popular worldwide. Strong community, excellent support.

Evektor SportStar ($35-90K)

Czech-built LSA. Exceptional fuel economy (5-6 gph). Modern composite construction. Simple systems. European engineering. Growing community.

Diamond DA20 LSA ($60-120K)

Certified aircraft optionally operated as LSA. Modern composite design. Can fly as LSA (simplified) or certified. Excellent performance and safety.

Rans Aircraft ($50-100K)

All-metal kit aircraft and ready-made models. Simple, reliable designs. Growing LSA lineup. Excellent support network.

Flight Design ($40-110K)

German-built composite LSA aircraft. Known for quality, innovation, and performance. Various models for different flying styles.

Sport Pilot License Requirements

Eligibility

• Age 17 or older
• Can speak, read, write English
• Valid U.S. Driver's License
• No medical certificate needed

Training Requirements

• Minimum 20 hours flight training (including 15 hours dual, 5 hours solo)
• Minimum 40-50 total hours recommended for proficiency
• Knowledge test (70% passing)
• Practical flying exam with examiner

Privileges & Limitations

• Fly light sport aircraft only
• Recreational flying only (no commercial use)
• Daytime flying only (no night operations)
• Visibility requirements (no low clouds/fog)
• No flight into clouds (VFR only)
• Maximum 10,000 feet altitude

Financing LSA Aircraft

For a $65,000 Tecnam P2008:

• 10% down ($6,500): Finance $58,500. 10-year at 7% = $683/month
• 15% down ($9,750): Finance $55,250. 10-year at 7% = $648/month
• 20% down ($13,000): Finance $52,000. 10-year at 7% = $610/month

Many lenders offer favorable LSA terms. Some specialize in sport aircraft financing. Use our affordability calculator to explore your budget.

Operating Costs: True Economy Flying

Annual Fixed Costs

• Insurance: $600-1,200
• Annual Inspection: $400-800
• Hangar/Tie-down: $100-150/month
• Registration: $300-500

Total Fixed: $2,600-4,300/year

Variable Per Hour

• Fuel: 5-6 gph at $5/gallon = $25-30/hour
• Maintenance: $10-20/hour
• Engine Reserve: $5-15/hour

Total Variable: $40-65/hour

Total Ownership (100 hours/year)

• Fixed: $3,500
• Variable (100 hours × $52): $5,200
• Loan payment (10-year, $55.25K at 7%): $648/month ($7,776/year)
• Total Annual: $16,476
• Cost Per Hour: $165

Insurance & Maintenance

Hull insurance: $600-1,200/year. Liability: $1M/$1M standard ($300-400).

Maintenance is straightforward with simple systems. Annual inspections quick and affordable. Most owners perform basic maintenance themselves.

Next Steps: LSA Ownership

1. Determine budget (total cost ~$16,000-22,000 annually)
2. Research Sport Pilot training programs in your area
3. Get started with Sport Pilot training
4. Get pre-approved for LSA financing
5. Research LSA aircraft models
6. Shop for quality LSA aircraft
7. Complete Sport Pilot License
8. Complete aircraft purchase and begin flying

Individual LSA Aircraft Guides

• Tecnam P2008 Buyer's Guide
• Evektor SportStar Buyer's Guide
• Diamond DA20 LSA Buyer's Guide