Definition
A category of small, simple aircraft defined by the FAA with strict limits on weight, speed, seating, and complexity. A light sport aircraft (LSA) has a maximum takeoff weight of 1,320 pounds (1,430 pounds for seaplanes), a maximum stall speed of 45 knots, a maximum level-flight speed of 120 knots, no more than two seats, a single reciprocating engine, fixed landing gear (except for seaplanes and gliders), and a fixed or ground-adjustable propeller. Aircraft meeting these criteria can be flown by holders of a Sport Pilot certificate.
Plain English
A small, slow, simple two-seat aircraft that meets the FAA's specific size and performance limits. Because it is limited in weight and speed, a pilot can fly one with a Sport Pilot certificate, which is easier to earn than a Private Pilot certificate.
Context Anchor
You will see this term when studying sport pilot privileges, aircraft eligibility, endorsements, and what aircraft a sport pilot is allowed to fly.
Derivation
Light' refers to weight, 'sport' indicates recreational use, and 'aircraft' is the machine itself. The phrase was created by the FAA in 2004 as a regulatory category to make recreational flying more accessible by reducing the certification burden for both aircraft and pilots.
Why Pilots Care
A pilot must confirm an aircraft qualifies as light sport before operating it under sport pilot privileges, as exceeding the limits requires a higher certificate.
Intuition Check
Do not read “light sport aircraft” as simply “a lightweight aircraft used for fun.” In FAA use, it means an aircraft that meets a specific legal set of limits; a small aircraft does not automatically qualify.
Example Sentence 1
She earned her Sport Pilot certificate so she could fly a light sport aircraft on weekends without holding an FAA medical.
Example Sentence 2
Many ultralight-style designs are certified as light sport aircraft to expand training options for new pilots.