UltraFlight Radio - Interviews with Jim Sweeney

Interviews with Jim Sweeney

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
With Jim Sweeney talks about the responsibilities of the Pilot in Command of an aircraft. Just what is the pilot in command and what does that mean to the FAA? Jim talks about that and more. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (10/10/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about a couple of points that have been raised in the deadline conversation we had last week on Sport Pilot transitions. We mainly deal with myths of how you can extend your transition deadline and why they don't work. We also talk about the differences between a DPE check ride and a Sport Pilot proficiency check. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (9/26/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
With only four months until the deadline for transitioning to sport pilot, Jim Sweeney talks about the increased costs in time, money, and inconveniences that are in store for those that want to become sport pilots after that deadline. I know. It's not cheery news, but you should know what's going on. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (9/19/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
It makes sense that a pilot should be both current and proficient in the aircraft they fly. But what does 'current' mean? The FAA has specific definitions of currency and Jim Sweeney tells us all about it. He talks about the regulations pertaining to currency and flight reviews and how to meet their requirements. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (9/5/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney tells us how to log training time towards a sport pilot rating. Basic Flight Instructors (BFIs) and Ultralight Flight Instructors (UFIs) can train pilots for Sport Pilot ratings. We have gotten some questions from both students and trainers on how to log that training time properly. You can get here what you can't get in FAA literature. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (8/22/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks to us about the requirements to report aviation accidents and incidents. He talks about the reporting differences between ultralights and light sport aircraft. Jim also talks about how to determine what kinds of accidents and incidents are reportable and how to make the report. The reference for this discussion is NTSB 830. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (8/15/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Do you know what this striping means when painted on the asphalt at the local airport?

If you don't, you should listen to this week's segment with Jim Sweeney. Even if you already know what it means, you'll probably still learn something from new from Jim. I always seem to. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (8/1/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney is on the ground at AirVenture and gives us an on the scene report about the goings on at Oshkosh so far this week. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (7/25/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Now that we are realistically able to look at the opportunities to fly Light Sport Aircraft over congested areas, we talk with Jim Sweeney about the rules regarding flying over town. Federal Aviation Rule (FAR) 91.119 is the pertinent rule and Jim talks about how it applies to sport pilots flying light sport aircraft. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (7/18/06)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association, Inc.
Jeff Goin, United States Powered Paragliding Association
USUA and USPPA have entered into an agreement that will provide the PPG pilot the advantage of the resources of the oldest powered ultralight organization in the US, and provide the USUA member the opportunity to participate in a truly unique and exciting form of ultralighting. Dale and Jeff tell us all about it. United States Ultralight Association United States Powered Paragliding Association (6/27/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim talks about the recent announcement from Rotax that their two-stroke 582 Engine has met ASTM standards. He talks about how this can impact the affordability of light sport aircraft. Dan also has news about the upcoming LSA mall to be part of the Northwest Regional Fly-In and more. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (6/27/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks with us about the hard reality of transition times to Sport Pilot. Ultralight Pilots have until January 31st, 2007 to grandfather into Sport Pilots. While some people want to believe that date will be pushed out, all signals from the FAA are that they won't be. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (6/20/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about getting a telephone weather briefing from flight service. He talks about what information you should be ready to give the briefer and what kind of information you can ask for and get from the weather briefer. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (6/13/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney joins us to talk about the weather. There are tools on the internet that allow pilots access to the same tools that local and internet weather forecasters have. Jim talks about how fronts effect your weather and how to read the 12 Hour Combined Surface Prognosis Chart. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (6/6/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about a seasonal hazard, thunderstorms. We talk about why they are dangerous, what kind of conditions cause them, and how to avoid them. For a graphic showing the life-cycle of a thunderstorm, click here. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (5/30/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about the what the steering controls on a powered parachute might be called. There are several different names for what is being accomplished by deforming the wing for a turn. We go through the names and try to figure which ones work better than others. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (5/23/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney has had the best record for getting people prepared to take the Sport Pilot Knowledge Test through his 3 day ground schools. He talks about the breaking news that those knowledge tests are changing and what that will mean to both the training world and to those preparing to take the test. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (5/16/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Keeping with the traveling theme, Jim Sweeney goes over the things to do if you get lost while flying. He covers courses of action, how to get oriented, identifying landmarks, navigation systems and (yes ladies) even how to ask for directions. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (5/9/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney visits with us about logging time for student pilots. Who can log what for who and when and how long they can do it. This is important information for those getting started out in the sport and (again) for instructors that want to do it right. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (5/2/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim talks with us about how to approach non-towered airports. Since sport aviators may fly a little lower than other pilots; answers to questions about how to go around an airport, or enter the pattern, or just fly over the top of an airport are sometimes a little bit different than for other pilots. And of course some of it is the same. Jim sorts it all out for us. To follow along, you may want to visit: Getting Around the Traffic Pattern. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (4/25/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
The bulk of the airspace everyone shy of an Air Transport Pilot flies in is class E and class G airspace. Recognizing what is what and where is where is still a mystery for some. Unfortunately, the training chart put out by the FAA is not the clearest. Well, Jim Sweeney helps us take some of the mystery out of reading the sectionals and the US Airspace at a Glance Chart. To follow along, you may want to visit: Reading the US Airspace at a Glance Chart. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (4/18/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
There have been some questions about Mode C veils, Light Sport Aircraft and encoding transponders. What do you do as an N-numbered aircraft flying in the Mode C veil? Luckily we have Jim Sweeney available to sort out what you need to do to keep yourself straight. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (3/21/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about the speed limits for taxiing at an airport and on your private field. He also talks about why you should be careful with your taxi speeds and some of the challenges from different aircraft configurations. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (3/7/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney takes some of the mystery out of the check ride process. As more people pass their sport pilot knowledge tests, they wonder about the other steps that are needed to complete the transition to becoming sport pilots. Jim clues us in on some of the resources that are out there to help make your check ride a success. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (2/28/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about how to navigate with a compass. He focusses on how to determine your course, both magnetic and your compass course. If you thought those were the same thing, you definitely need to listen in. To make things easy, follow along with the magnetic and compass headings graphic Jim has provided. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (2/21/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about how to use a plotter. This basic navigational planning tool is used to determine both distances and headings on sectionals. Jim explains how it works. To make things easy, follow along with the plotter graphics Jim has provided. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (2/14/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about what to expect at this year's Illinois Ultralight and Light Plane Safety Seminar. This safety seminar is the largest in the country that focuses on ultralights and light sport aircraft. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (2/14/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney visits with us about Aeromedical Factors. We talk about things having to do with the body and oxygen while flying. We'll learn about terms like hypoxia, hyperventilation, and carbon monoxide poisoning. This is the kind of stuff that keeps you safe. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (1/31/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about the different types of aircraft certifications and how they all fit together. This really helps to show where Special Light Sport Aircraft and Experimental Light Sport Aircraft fit into the big picture. Check out the Special Airworthiness page we set up to help explain some of the details. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (1/10/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim joins us to talk about low level ultralight flying and how to find and avoid obstacles that can ruin a flying day. Many towers and high terrain points can be found on your sectional. Jim shows us how to look for those points of interest. To follow along, you may want to visit a page we have set up with a piece of sectional that we will use to show you how to keep Avoiding Obstacles. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF(1/3/06)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Too many people are intimidated by aviation band radios. Jim Sweeney strips away all of the fluff and tells us what we need to be able to communicate at the uncontrolled fields that many of us fly from. Great stuff for those working on their Sport Pilot rating. The Basics of Radio Use. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (11/29/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
We talk with Jim Sweeney about the challenges of high altitude flight operations. There are things that people from low altitudes need to know before heading to the mountains to fly. We discuss power requirements, power availability, and general mountain operations. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (10/25/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about how to find out what the weather is like at your local airport. ATIS, AWOS, and ASOS systems are popping up at a lot of local airports. Learn how you can access information from these systems via aviation band radio, telephone, and even the internet. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (10/11/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
This week the flight service stations (you know, our friends at 1-800-WX-BRIEF) are going through a big reorganization. The 'neighborhood' flight briefer is no more. That is, unless you live in one of the three cities where all flight briefing activities have been consolidated to, Ft. Worth, Texas; Leesburg, Virginia; or Prescott, Arizona. Moreover, the FSSs are no longer FAA operations, they have been taken over by Lockheed Martin. Jim Sweeney talks about the impacts. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (10/4/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney joins us to finish a topic we promised to cover a while ago. That is, how to use an Airport Facility Directory (AFD). In order to follow along, you should click here. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (9/13/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
A lot of pilots live close to or even under Military Operation Areas (MOAs). While it is a good idea to avoid flying in an MOA, it is also good to know when the MOA really is active so you can avoid flying during busy training times. Jim Sweeney talks about how you can learn more about MOAs. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (9/6/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about fuel management. For those that want to wander from the airport (and particularly those that want to wander with a license), there are certain minimum fuel requirements to keep in mind. Jim talks about what they are and how to calculate them. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (8/30/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney discusses the options to getting a pilot license and flying under the Sport Pilot rules. With the increased visibility that the FAA has now for the lighter side of sport aviation, it is important to know how to stay legal with ultralight aircraft if that is the way you want to go. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (8/23/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
A listener wrote in with a question about flying rules and etiquette over wetlands, national parks and such. Of course we have Jim Sweeney on call to answer questions just like that. He tells us all about that special airspace, how you can find it (or avoid it), and how you should behave in it. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (8/16/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney spent last week at Oshkosh visiting with vendors, attending meetings, and taking in the event. He talks about the things he experienced at this years AirVenture and perhaps a little about the sport pilot clinic coming up on 11-14 August. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (8/2/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney is on station at AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and is ready to give us a report on what he is seeing. Jim tells us about some of the things to look for at this year's show. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF and don't forget about the sport pilot clinic coming up on 19-21 August. (7/26/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks with us about a sport pilot clinic that will help interested pilots get started on the transition process. The clinic will be held on the 19-21 August and includes opportunities for ground school, knowledge testing, practical testing, and a specific forum on N-numbering your machine. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (7/19/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney tells us about "Biennial" Flight Reviews. Once you have a license to fly, you have to keep current. In the exemption world, BFIs and UFIs are used to having to go to refresher courses (either on line or in person) to maintain their ratings. With Sport Pilot, the process is quicker and can be one-on-one. Flight reviews can take as little as one hour ground training and one hour flight training done by a CFI. Jim gives us all the details about the regulations regarding the reviews. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (7/5/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Most pilots are used to looking at Special use Airspace (Restricted Areas, Alert Areas, etc.) and Military Operational Areas (MOAs) as airspace that starts at Ground Level and terminates somewhere close to the moon. Actually, the airspaces have specific floors and ceilings that you should know about if you live close to one. Jim Sweeney tells us how to find the altitudes so you can stay safe and worry-free. Special Use Airspace in 3 Dimensions. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (6/21/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
We visit with Jim Sweeney about flying in Class D Airspace. We talk about finding the right frequencies, communicating with the tower and more. Follow along with us on our page about Operating in Class D Airspace. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (6/14/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about alcohol, drugs, cars, and planes. As you can imagine, they don't mix very well. Jim talks about the limits the FAA puts on that mixture of activities and talks about how even over-the-counter medicines can get you in trouble while flying. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (6/7/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Summer seems to have finally arrived... mostly. In any case, it is time to think about how the heat and humidity of summer can reduce the capability of your aircraft. Even though summer flying can be some of the most fun, you can get in trouble if you don't take into account that reduced capability. Jim Sweeney tells us about it. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (5/31/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim talks about the parallelism between the current ultralight exemption system and the sport pilot rule. Understanding one will help you understand the other. This is also important when working on the timing for transitioning from the exemption program to sport pilot. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (5/17/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Going somewhere? Jim Sweeney tells us how to file a flight plan. He covers who you are going to tell, how you tell them and what you should be telling them. Jim gives us the practical way of doing things. And click on the link if you are looking for details on how to fill out the flight plan form. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (5/10/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
What can you expect when going through a Sport Pilot check ride? How does the check ride work if you fly more than one type of aircraft like airplane, trike, and powered parachute? What if you are a converting instructor? Jim Sweeney answers these questions and more. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (5/3/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Mem hg.html ber
What can you expect when going through a Sport Pilot check ride? How does the check ride work if you fly more than one type of aircraft like airplane, trike, and powered parachute? What if you are a converting instructor? Jim Sweeney answers these questions and more. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 2) (5/3/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
There is some confusion out in the flying world about endorsements for make and model sets for sport pilots. Jim Sweeney simplifies the process for those making the transition to different categories of aircraft. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (Part 1) (4/26/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney joins us to talk about the Practical Test Standards for Sport Pilot. Many people know that the answers to the questions for the knowledge test are published. A lot of folks are worried about taking the practical test for Sport Pilot and don't realize that the topics for that test are published, too. Download the Practical Test Standards, SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (4/12/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about the transition process for private pilots that want to fly different types of aircraft under the sport pilot rules. It is a much simpler process than a lot of people imagine. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (4/12/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney joins us to talk about all of the opportunities to learn about our sport at Sun 'n Fun. Particular focus on the events going on in the Ultralight Forum tent at Paradise City. You can see the full schedule at: http://www.ultraflightradio.com/forums/sunfunspeaker2005.html. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (4/5/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
The President and Vice-President are getting ready ready for some extensive travel around the country, and that means more Temporary Flight Restrictions or TFRs as they are commonly known. Jim tells us how to stay out of trouble. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (3/15/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
With Sport Pilot here, there are lots of questions about category, class, make, model, and types of aircraft. Jim Sweeney sorts out all of the terms for us and shows how everything relates to the Sport Pilot. Jim has put up some information about the Light Sport Aircraft Sets of Aircraft for our use. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (3/8/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney tells us about the process for converting your fat ultralight or two seat trainer into a Light Sport Aircraft. Now is the time for thinking about when and how you want to start the conversion, no matter when you plan to do it. Jim has put up some information about the Light Sport Aircraft Process for our use at the NAPPF web site. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (3/1/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney has some final thoughts on moving existing ultralights into sport pilot. He also gives us a final wrap-up on the Illinois Ultralight and Light Plane Safety Seminar. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (3/1/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about radio frequencies, their uses, and how to find the right frequencies for the things you are trying to do. Jim has put up some information about radio frequencies for our use at the NAPPF web site. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (2/22/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney stays with us to talk about the FAA's signed acceptance of the first industry developed consensus standards for light-sport aircraft last week. This is getting the industry closer to being able to produce special light-sport aircraft (S-LSA) and experimental light-sport aircraft (E-LSA) kits. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (2/22/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney tells about VASI systems. This airport lighting system is important to know about if you are getting ready to take one of the Sport Pilot Knowledge Tests. Follow along with the graphics Jim has provided. Jim also gives us an idea of what to expect at this year's Illinois Ultralight and Light Plane Safety Seminar. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (2/15/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney joins us to talk about the process of taking and passing your sport pilot knowledge test. Who needs to take the knowledge test? Where do you take the knowledge test? How do you get the endorsement to take the knowledge test? How do you study for the knowledge test? What is the difference between the knowledge test and the practical test? Jim covers it all. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (1/25/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim explains Aeronautical Decision Making. The "human factor" still accounts for up to 75% of all aviation accidents. We can become safer pilots by better understanding some of the pitfalls that are out there. Luckily, the FAA has spent a lot of time studying this issue and Jim shows us what they have learned over the years. You can get more out of this segment by following along on this Aeronautical Decision Making link. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (Part 1) (1/18/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
The Sport Pilot Practical Test Standards were published last week and Jim joins us to talk about what is in them. Learn about the tasks you will need to perform in order to get your sport pilot rating. Downloads:

SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF (1/4/05)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Last week Jim Sweeney was meeting with the FAA in Oklahoma City and participated in a dry run of the classes being put together for the Sport Pilot Designated Airworthiness Representatives or DARs. DARs are the individuals that will be taking on the mission of certifying Light Sport Aircraft for Sport Pilot use. Jim updates us on this critical aspect of Sport Pilot implementation. PDF file with the new FAA order for Experimental and Special Light Sport Aircraft DAR Qualifications. Interested in becoming a DAR? Complete an FAA Form 8110-14. SweeneyCorp, USUA, NAPPF. (12/21/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney talks about the practical test standards for getting a sport pilot license. Where the knowledge tests are rather generic and cover all types of light sport aircraft, the practical test covers the hands-on flying skills that you will have to demonstrate to an examiner in whatever type of aircraft you choose to get rated in. USUA, NAPPF (11/30/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney tells us more about the knowledge tests being developed for sport pilot. The focus this week is on private pilot testing, instructor testing, DPE testing and the practical test standards. USUA, NAPPF (11/16/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney tells us a little about his background in flying. He also tells us about his new on-line, teleconference ground school. We close by offering our sympathy to the family of Norman Labhart, Jr. Norman Labhart was killed in an ultralight plane crash in Laurel, Kentucky. USUA, NAPPF (11/16/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney more news in the world of sport pilot. The new knowledge test questions for the different levels of sport pilot have been published. Jim shares with us some of the background on that and introduces his new on-line, teleconference ground school. www.usua.org, www.nappf.com (Part 1) (11/9/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney checks in with a report on the ASTM meetings in Sebring, Florida as well as the a report on the very first U.S. Sport Aviation Expo held at the same location. The Expo proves that there is a lot of interest in Light Sport Aviation and the people in the ASTM meetings are helping make the new rules work. www.usua.org, www.nappf.com (Part 1, the ASTM Meeting) (11/2/04)

This week is a different kind of UltraFlight Radio Show. Over the past few months we have been getting more questions about sport pilot than we have time to answer during any normal guest segment. The questions are great questions, but time restraints have kept us from getting everybody in.

This week we have a solution.

This week we are assembling a panel of experts to answer YOUR questions about sport pilot and light sport aircraft. This is your chance to call in, write in, or IM in your questions about the new sport pilot program and how to transition to it. Those questions will be answered by the people that work with Sport Pilot every day. They are the ones writing the guidance, implementing the rule, and working with pilots.

We will start the show with a quick introduction from the panelists and then we will get right to your questions. Please feel free to email me at roy@easyflight.com with your questions. You can also reach me by instant message on both Yahoo and AOL instant message systems. My user name on those systems is UFRadio. I will pass as many of your questions as possible to the panel.

And of course you can call in. If you are in the U.S., you can call toll free - 1-888-514-2100. If you are somewhere that the toll free number does not work, you can reach us at 1-858-268-3068.

Here are the panelists you get to ask your questions of:

Marty Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty works for the Federal Aviation Administration in Oklahoma City. He is in the Light-Sport Aviation Branch of the Regulatory Support Division. That means he is tasked with developing the Sport Pilot Examiner (SPE) Seminars, Light-Sport Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR) Seminars and more. He is on the implementation side of Sport Pilot. http://afs600.faa.gov/AFS610.htm

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
Earl Lawrence has been involved in all aspects of the Sport Pilot rule since well before the NPRM was published. Recently, he has headed up the ASTM Light Sport Aircraft Committee, the organization tasked with coming up with the industry manufacturing standards for all light sport aircraft. www.eaa.org

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim Sweeney is the president of the North American Powered Parachute Federation Board of Directors and sits on the Board of Directors for the United States Ultralight Association. He has represented the viewpoint of powered parachutes specifically and training issues for both PPC and fixed wing types. Not only that, but he is well recognized on this show for providing great content. www.usua.org, www.nappf.com, www.sweeneycorp.com

Segment 1 (10/19/04)

Segment 2 (10/19/04)

Segment 3 (10/19/04)

Segment 4 (10/19/04)

Segment 5 (10/19/04)

Segment 6 (10/19/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Questions of course are still out there about Sport Pilot. Jim Sweeney began a discussion last week about what to do next to get a sport pilot rating. We continue the discussion this week. This week we talk about how to get your plane registered and certified as a Light Sport Aircraft. Jim has prepared a some graphics to go along with the presentation. To follow along, click on this Presentation Link. www.usua.org, www.nappf.com (10/12/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Questions of course are still out there about Sport Pilot. Jim Sweeney began a discussion last week about what to do next to get a sport pilot rating. We continue the discussion this week. This week we talk about how to get your plane registered and certified as a Light Sport Aircraft. In this segment Jim also answers a couple of listener questions. Jim has prepared a some graphics to go along with the presentation. To follow along, click on this Presentation Link. www.usua.org, www.nappf.com (10/12/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member