LSA

An FAA-registered aircraft, other than a helicopter or powered-lift, that meets certain weight and performance limits. Principally it is a single-engine aircraft with a maximum of two seats and weighing no more than 1,430 pounds if intended for operation on water, or 1,320 pounds if not. It must be of simple design (fixed landing gear, piston powered, nonpressurized, with a fixed or ground adjustable propeller). Performance is limited to a maximum airspeed in level flight of not more than 120 knots calibrated airspeed (CAS), and a maximum stalling speed, without the use of lift-enhancing devices, of not more than 45 knots CAS. A minimum of a sport pilot certificate is required to operate light-sport aircraft.

Source FAA Pilot/Controller Glossary↗ · checked 2026-08-25