UltraFlight Radio - Rules & Politics Archives

Politics of Flying:

Regulations, Sport Pilot, Light Sport Aircraft, Organizations & More

Keith Negal, Chairman, Royal Aero Club Of The United Kingdom
Keith Negal joins us to talk about an issue that can effect recreational pilots all across Europe. The European Aviation Safety Agency has published the Advance-Notice of Proposed Amendment (A-NPA) No 14-2006, "A Concept for Better Regulation in General Aviation (Aircraft other than Complex Motor Powered Aircraft, used in Non-Commercial activities)" That sounds ominous enough. Over the weekend of 7th & 8th of October the European Microlight Federation held its General Conference at the RAF Museum in Hendon, London. There A-NPA No. 14-2006 and the European microlight community's response to was discussed. Keith joins us to talk about how it's important that individual pilots across Europe respond to this A-NPA. Royal Aero Club (10/10/06)

Larry Clymer, FAA Light Sport Aviation Branch
Larry Clymer joins us to talk about the ultralight pilot to sport pilot January 31, 2007 transition deadline. There are lots of questions from listeners about what happens if people that were ultralight pilots on or before September 1, 2004 don't make that deadline. Of course the head of the sport pilot branch has the answers. Light Sport Aviation Branch (10/3/06)

Richard Meredith-Hardy, 1st Vice-President, FAI Microlight Commission
As the editor of the Microlight section of the FAI Sport Code, Richard Meredith-Hardy has one of the most thankless and critical jobs on the international scene of powered light sport aviation. The Sporting Code specifies how microlight records are set, how to attain microlight awards and how international microlight competitions should be held. The Sporting Code is going through its annual review and Richard explains how you can influence the document. FAI Sporting Code, Section 10 (PDF File), 2006 Proposed Changes to Section 10. (9/26/06)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Paul is back from two great aviation events, the Reno Air Races and the Clear Lake Splash-In in Lakeport, California. He gives us a report on both events and we talk a little about the quality of the information being put out about Sport Pilot. Adventure Productions (9/26/06)

Phil Dietro, Inland Paraflite, Inc
When Sport Pilot was first introduced, one of the privileges that became available in the regulations was the opportunity for powered parachutes to fly over congested or urban areas. Phil Dietro took advantage of that privilege a short while back when he took off from the Torrance Airport in Southern California. He talks about the preparations that he made to do that kind of flight and what it felt like to be cruising above the Los Angeles cityscape in a powered parachute. Inland Paraflite, Inc (9/26/06)

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)

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
At the two-year anniversary of the Sport Pilot Rule, we visit with Earl Lawrence to get a review of the last year's activity. We talk about the milestones that have been passed, the increase in activity over the last year, and what can be expected in the near future. EAA has done a great job of gathering facts and figures related to Sport Pilot and Earl shares some of those with us, too. Experimental Aircraft Association (9/5/06)

Mark Aldridge, Federal Aviation Administration
Change 1 to the Practical Test Standards for Sport Pilots was just introduced a few weeks ago. We talk with the FAA's author of a lot of those changes about how a PTS fits into the big scheme of things. We learn about what a PTS is required for and what the standards are and are not designed to do. You can download free copies of all of the PTS's by visiting the link: FAA Pilot Practical Test Standards (8/15/06)

Van Stumpner, Federal Aviation Administration
Van Stumpner has just put the finishing touches on an on-line course that will allow existing Amateur Built Aircraft Designated Airworthiness Representatives (DARs) to pick up the additional function code to do the same kind of inspections for Light Sport Aircraft (LSA). He tells us about how that course should help make LSA DARs more available. While we have him with us, we'll also ask how those wanting to become a DAR can do that. Click to download FAA Order 8130-33 (PDF) with the DAR Application Form. Designee Information and Links, FAA Sport Pilot Branch (8/8/06)

Dan Johnson, Light Aircraft Manufacturing Association
Dan Johnson joins us this time to talk about the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association. LAMA has put together an auditing program that will allow aircraft producers to have an outside set of eyes to verify that they are doing things according to ASTM standards. Dan explains what all that means to LSA owners. ByDanJohnson.com, LAMA (8/8/06)

Dr. John Hastings, Chairman, EAA Aeromedical Advisory Council
Recently a story was published in Texas where the operations director of the Mesquite City Airport told the Dallas Morning News regarding sport pilots, "If they don't have to get a medical, or if there are ones who do this because they can't pass the medical, then they probably shouldn't be flying." While the newspaper seemed satisfied with her medical opinion, we talk with Dr. Hastings, who probably knows just a little more about the medical issues regarding sport aviation. Learn some things that didn't make the headlines. Experimental Aircraft Association (7/11/06)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
The new test questions are now part of the FAA Knowledge Test for Sport Pilots. Where there once was one test, now there are seven. Paul Hamilton tells us how to get the additional questions (and their answers) to prepare for the knowledge tests. Adventure Productions (7/11/06)

Amy Wiley, Wiley Wales Powerchutes LLC
Amy Wiley recently completed the Light-Sport Aircraft Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR) Course in Oklahoma City. Since then, she has followed through on the process and become a DAR. We congratulate her on becoming the first woman in the Sport Pilot DAR program and talk with her about her impressions of the program. Wiley Wales Powerchutes LLC (7/11/06)

Van Stumpner, Federal Aviation Administration
There is a lot of confusion about Experimental Light Sport Aircraft certificates. Van Stumpner joins us from the Light Sport Aviation Branch to talk about the three options in FAR §21.191 under which someone can get an E-LSA certificate for their aircraft and how those options compare with each other. We also get an update on the latest DAR graduating class. Light Sport Aviation Branch (Part 1) (6/27/06)

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)

Doug Maas Six Chuter, Inc.
Doug Maas just got back from the very first Designated Pilot Examiner course in 2006. He talks about his impressions of the course. He also gives us an update on the S-LSA project being worked on by Six Chuter. He talks about flying the prototype for the new side-by-side powered parachute. Six Chuter, Inc. (6/20/06)

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)

Chris Dancy, AOPA
Chris Dancy joins us from the Airplane Owners and Pilots Association to talk about AOPA's petition to let pilots that have lost their medicals be able to fly under recreational pilot privileges with a "driver's license medical". Chris gives us the background on this idea and what it will mean to pilots. Airplane Owners and Pilots Association (6/13/06)

Larry Clymer, FAA Light Sport Aviation Branch
Larry Clymer joins us to answer some Sport Pilot questions that have come in over the past weeks. We focus on pilots that want to use their private pilot certificates to fly under sport pilot. What pilots need to do to fly airplanes, or what they need to do to operate weight shift control or powered parachutes. We also talk about when make and model endorsements are needed and how to get them. Light Sport Aviation Branch (6/6/06)

Randy Hansen, EAA
It seems that gasoline is on everyone's mind nowadays and it really should be on a lot of pilots' minds. Because while most people are worried about the price of fuel, pilots that use autofuel for their aircraft have bigger concerns. Pilots need to know the issues surrounding the reformulation of fuel, mainly the addition of Ethanol to gasoline. Randy Hansen has been studying the issue and talks to us about it. EAA.org. (5/30/06)

Larry Culver, FAA AFS-630
The Sport Pilot Knowledge Test, the computerized multiple choice test that pilots take as an important part of becoming Sport Pilots, has been changed. Where there once was one generic test, very soon there will be seven new tests that include questions from the different categories of aircraft such as weight shift control, airplane, and powered parachute. Larry Culver is one of the FAA people that created the tests and he tells us about the process. (5/16/06)

Shawn Okun, Float Planes And Amphibs
Last week we learned about Alexis Peltier's tangle with the FAA in Key West, Florida. Alexis is the Kenyan delegate to the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale's Microlight Commission. Shortly after his story was told here on UltraFlight Radio, he got the call he was waiting for to get the process moving forward. (Many thanks to somebody.) Shawn Okun catches us up with Alexis' trip and tells us about the changes in itinerary for the year. Float Planes & Amphibs (5/16/06)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper joins us to give us the latest from the USUA. A committee has been formed specifically to address concerns from USUA clubs. Clubs have specific needs like insurance and airport access that need work. Also, USUA has just announced a BFI Program Rate Change. BFI fees are now priced at $75 per year. BFI ratings are still valuable to both the instructors and the flying community, but now this makes them a value, too. United States Ultralight Association (5/9/06)

Lee Parker
Lee Parker tells the unfolding story of Alexis Peltier's tangle with the FAA in Key West, Florida. Alexis is the Kenyan delegate to the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale's Microlight Commission. He's attempting to fly from Chile to Kenya on a flight that is meant to draw the public's attention to migrating birds. Instead, it seems to have drawn the attention of every enforcement agency in the United States. Grounded in Florida and with a limited window of time to complete the journey, we're trying find someone in the US that can help Alexis to get on his way. (5/9/06)

Larry Clymer, Federal Aviation Administration Sport Pilot Branch
We visit with Larry Clymer about how sport pilots can get training from Ultralight Instructors. Yes, the BFIs and UFIs from the Ultralight organizations can provide the required aeronautical experience for students wanting to become sport pilots. We get the right details for both the students and for the instructors wanting to provide that training. Also, the next DPE course has been filled with applicants. We learn what is going on there. FAA Sport Pilot Branch. (5/2/06)

Eulalie Langford
Eulalie Langford is the former state representative from Idaho that helped take up the cause of a rancher that wanted to use his powered parachute for predator control. It turned out that the effort took more than passing a state law to allow aerial hunting. Environmentalists turned in the "aerial gunner" to the FAA, who initially shut down the practice despite the state law. Now there is an agreement worked out that involves (of all things) the new Sport Pilot regulations. Listen in for a great story. (4/25/06)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper talks about recent USUA activity at Sun 'n Fun. For the first time ever, USUA had both their Board Meeting and their General Membership Meeting in Florida. We catch up with Dale's week in the Sun. United States Ultralight Association (Part 1) (4/18/06)

Greg Gremminger, Popular Rotorcraft Association
Greg Gremminger just got back from the Board of Directors meeting for the Popular Rotor craft Association. Lots of news came from that PRA meeting and Greg updates us on what is going on with the association. Popular Rotorcraft Association (4/4/06)

Edsel Ford, FAA Light Sport Aviation Branch
Van Stumpner, FAA Light Sport Aviation Branch
Edsel Ford and Van Stumpner join us to talk about aircraft markings and placarding. Sport Pilot is requiring aircraft owners to find ways to put N-numbers on their aircraft. Edsel and Van talk about how to do it; even on aircraft like powered parachutes and trikes. We also learn about placarding requirements for the mystery switches that a lot of pilots install and don't mark. Learn some of the things it takes to get your aircraft ready for an airworthiness inspection. Light Sport Aviation Branch (3/21/06)

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)

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
It is spring and legislatures across the land are once again trying to mandate that all gasoline sold in their states contain Ethanol. We talk about two specific proposals, one in Washington State and the other in Missouri. These proposals put a burden not just on ultralight and experimental aircraft owners, but also on owners of vintage cars, motorboats, and other recreational vehicles. We talk about what pilots in the effected states can do. Experimental Aircraft Association (3/14/06)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
A listener wrote in to ask how much extra weight was allowed on an ultralight aircraft for a ballistic recovery system. Dale Hooper gives us that number and the different possible interpretations of that number by people in the industry. He also announces the Volunteer Of The Year, Club Of The Year, Industry Award, and Communication Award winners for 2005. United States Ultralight Association (2/28/06)

Larry Clymer, FAA Light Sport Aviation Branch
Congratulations to Larry Clymer, who was just named the new Branch Manager for the Light Sport Aviation Branch. He takes time out from getting settled into his new role to talk about what he sees as the focus of the branch over the next year. Light Sport Aviation Branch (2/14/06)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper tells us about what is going on in the world of microlight competition. He has the results of the 2005 National Points Championships and news of how USUA is going to be approaching competition in the next year or so. United States Ultralight Association (2/14/06)

Tom Gunnarson, Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association
We talk with Tom Gunnarson, the new president of LAMA. Tom has helped manufacturers get their aircraft through the S-LSA process. Tom talks about the process and how manufacturers are working through it. Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association (2/7/06)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper catches us up with some USUA news. He talks about his travels to Washington DC and the meetings there about the ADIZ that has restricted general aviation air traffic and all but prohibited ultralight traffic. Dale also talks about powered paraglider insurance and releases the name of this year's Moody Award winner. United States Ultralight Association (1/31/06)

Edsel Ford, FAA Light Sport Aviation Branch
Edsel Ford talks to us about how you can transition your heavy ultralight or ultralight trainer into an Experimental-Light Sport Aircraft (E-LSA) certification. He talks about common aircraft owner questions, who to see to get the certification done, and the things that need to be done before the appointment with a designated airworthiness representative (DAR) is made. Light Sport Aviation Branch (Part 1) (1/24/06)

Eric Tucker, Rotax Owners Association
Eric Tucker is in the US and conducting a Rotax maintenance class for Mike Stratman at California Power Systems. He visits with us before the class starts about some of the ASTM standards for Special Light Sport Aircraft (S-LSA). Eric is Vice-Chairman of the ASTM committee overseeing all of the S-LSA standards, so he sees a lot of what is going on. Rotax Owners Association (1/24/06)

Dan Johnson, ByDanJohnson.com
Dan Johnson joins us for the first time as the new Chairman of the Light Aircraft Manufacturing Association (LAMA) Board of Directors. He does a review of the Sebring Light Sport Aviation Expo and talks about the plans for the sport pilot tour in 2006. ByDanJohnson.com (1/17/06)

Dan Defelici, Sport Aircraft Works
Dan Defelici joins us to talk about a Notice for Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that will permit the Czech Aircraft Works to be issued a special airworthiness certificate in the light-sport category for the Mermaid aircraft. This is significant because the Mermaid aircraft is an amphibious aircraft equipped with landing gear that can be retracted and extended while in flight. This has been a problem with the Light Sport Aircraft rules because of the language pertaining to amphibs. This NPRM has a very short fuse since the comment period ends on January 24, 2006. This is a chance for the sport aviation community to come together to help change the rules for the better. Sport Aircraft Works (1/17/06)

Kevin Kochersberger, Ph.D., Rochester Institute of Technology
Dr. Kochersberger, a Rochester Institute of Technology professor, has put together the first course for powered parachute owners to become certified to perform their own annual inspections on Experimental Light Sport Aircraft. He talks about how the first class went and what powered parachute owners took home from the process. He also talks about his upcoming course for fixed-wing E-LSA owners. (1/10/06)

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)

Larry Burke, Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association
Larry Burke, Founder and President of the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association, with the approval of the LAMA Board of Directors, has appointed two Board Directors, Dan Johnson as Board Chairman and Tom Gunnarson as President of LAMA. Larry joins us to talk about the purpose and history of LAMA and to give us an idea of what to look forward to in the future. Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association(1/3/06)

Paul Wells, United States Ultralight Association
USUA has formed a new committee, dedicated to the issues surrounding the ultralight and microlight competition environment in the U.S. While this type of group is not new to USUA, this new committee reflects a revitalization of the interest USUA is placing on competition in the coming years. Topics ranging from the national and international sanctioning of meets and events, to day to day scoring and maintenance issues associated with the USUA Competition program will be discussed by this group. These advisors to USUA will discuss, design and present competition programs and suggested changes to the USUA Board Of Directors. Paul Wells is the Chairman of the committee and he will tell us what is being discussed. United States Ultralight Association (12/13/05)

Michael Huffman, Sport Aviation Specialties
Michael Huffman has a newly accepted 16-hour training course for owners of experimental light-sport aircraft (E-LSAs) to prepare them for an FAA repairman certificate. He tells us how students can apply to their local FSDO office for issuance of the repairman certificate and how that will allow them to perform the annual condition inspection on their E-LSA following successful completion of the course. Sport Aviation Specialties (12/13/05)

Edsel Ford, FAA Light Sport Aviation Branch
Edsel Ford joins us to talk about how someone can become a Designated Airworthiness Representative and help transition two place ultralight trainers into Experimental Light Sport Aircraft (E-LSA). He offers us tips on how to apply and talks about how to make your application look good to the Selection Board. Light Sport Aviation Branch (12/6/05)

Tomas Backman - CIMA President
Congratulations to Tomas Backman, who was just re-elected as president of CIMA, the FAI Microlight Committee. Tomas joins us to review what was discussed, what was settled on, and what was scheduled at this year's CIMA meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland about a week ago. International Microlight Commission of FAI (Fédération Aéronautique Internationale) (11/22/05)

Mo Sheldon, Airparamo
When Mo Sheldon was with us last time, we talked about his powered paragliding operation that operates from the Phoenix Regional Airport. There are problems now with that relationship and Mo joins us to talk about what is going on. Airparamo (11/22/05)

Charlie Becker, Experimental Aircraft Association
Skystar Aircraft, manufacturer of the Kitfox kit aircraft, declared bankruptcy last month. That left some aircraft builders with unfulfilled, fully paid Rotax engine orders who discovered that they would be getting neither their engines nor their money back. EAA is helping coordinate an effort to take a little bit of the sting out of the situation. They are working to provide a preferred pricing discount program for Kitfox builders who paid for but did not receive their engines. Charlie Becker joins us to talk about what may be a one-time deal to get this very favorable pricing on Rotax engines for those that were hurt by the bankruptcy. Experimental Aircraft Association, Sport Plane LLC, http://kitfox.lazair.com/ (11/15/05)

Tad Hurst, Director of Region 3, United States Hang Gliding Association
Tad Hurst has been working on the issue of including powered harnesses in the USHGA. That means -for the most part- powered paragliders. Tad talks about the pros and cons of the issue from the members' and the Association's points of view. Also, Tad was at the memorial service for Alan Chuculate from San Diego. Alan, who touched a lot of people's lives, was killed on November 5th in a trike crash while landing in Mexico. Tad reports on the service and talks a little about Alan. United States Hang Gliding Association (Part 1) (11/15/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Paul Hamilton is back from the AOPA convention in Tampa, Florida. More than 8,500 people attended the show with some 1,200 airplanes flying in for the event. With more than 70 hours of seminars and 100 aircraft on display, there was a lot to do. Paul joins us to talk about the things he saw and the take that the GA world has for Sport Pilot. Adventure Productions (11/8/05)

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
The ASTM Light Sport Aircraft Committee meetings in Sebring, Florida finished up a week ago. Earl Lawrence, Chairman of the Committee, gives us a rundown of individual subcommittee accomplishments this year. He also talks about some of the important work being done in the "cross-cutting" committee. Experimental Aircraft Association (Part 1) (11/8/05)

Jon Thornburgh, Sport Pilot Designated Pilot Examiner
Jon Thornburgh became a DPE this summer and has been busy doing check rides for transitioning pilots. He takes some time to talk to us about how to prepare for the check ride, what to bring, what to expect, and what you should be able to show and do. This is great information for those preparing to make the transition to sport pilot. www.jonthornburgh.com (Part 1) (11/1/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Last time Paul was on, we began talking about the steps that it takes to get an ultralight trainer transitioned over to Experimental-Light Sport Aircraft (E-LSA). We got through a lot of the preliminaries, but still need to cover some of the details. Paul has put together a web page that gives a lot of detail with examples of the forms that need to be filled out. Paul joins us to walk us through the process. How to Register and N Number your Non Qualifying Ultralight or Fat Ultralight as a Light Sport Aircraft. Adventure Productions (Part 1) (10/18/05)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver joins us one last time as the head of the FAA Sport Pilot Branch. With his retirement scheduled for the end of October, he shares his thoughts on the accomplishments, challenges, and future of the Sport Pilot program. (Part 1) (10/11/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
A lot of people are curious about how someone gets their 2-seat trainer through the N-numbering process for Sport Pilot. A few times we have promised to bring Paul Hamilton on to talk specifically about that. And each time we have not had the time to get to it. Well, this time that's what we are going to do. Paul got his trike through the process a couple of months ago. He tells us how he did it and gives us some hints to how we can work with the local FSDO office, too. Adventure Productions (Part 1) (10/4/05)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper tells us what has been going on with the United States Ultralight Association. They've moved their headquarters to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. USUA is also going through elections for Regional Representatives and is offering web pages for USUA clubs. United States Ultralight Association (9/20/05)

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
Dan talks with Earl Johnson about the FAA services needed to sustain growth for the Sport Pilot and Light Sport Aircraft programs. Service providers are needed like instructors, DPEs, and DARs. Earl reviews the extensive survey that the EAA and FAA performed which assessed industry needs for the next 12-24 months. Experimental Aircraft Association (8/23/05)

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)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver visits us for two segments. He talks about how the people within the FAA are warming to Sport Pilot as they learn more about the lighter side of aviation. He also answers a listener question about why the new Designated Pilot Examiners aren't spread out as optimally as possible. Finally, we talk about how Ultralight Flight Instructors can prepare students for sport pilot almost as easily as Certified Flight Instructors can. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (Part 1) (8/16/05)

Greg Gremminger, Magni Gyro
We talk with Greg Gremminger about the newly accepted ASTM standards for gyroplanes. We talk with him about what this means for manufacturers and pilots. Magni Gyro USA (8/9/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Paul Hamilton is on his way home from AirVenture where he spent a lot of time in the Light Sport Aircraft area talking to pilots about their desire (and sometimes lack of desire) to convert to Sport Pilot. He also introduced his Sport Pilot Training Syllabus at the show. The training tools are becoming more available for people. Adventure Productions (8/2/05)

Dan Johnson, ByDanJohnson.com
Dan Johnson just finished a very busy week in Oshkosh, but he takes time to review with us some of the things that were accomplished at this year's show. The LSA area was a success and sales were up for everyone offering equipment that can be flown by sport pilots. Dan gives us the details. ByDanJohnson.com (Part 1) (8/2/05)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
It has been awhile since Marty Weaver has been with us and there is a lot to catch up on. Sport Pilot has now been a rule for a year and Marty has been working hard to implement the rule by getting the Designated Pilot Examiners trained and in place. He tells us about how that part of the program is going and about all of the other FAA Sport Pilot News. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (Part 1) (7/26/05)

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
We visit with Earl Lawrence about the first anniversary of Sport Pilot. Last year at this time we were broadcasting live the sport pilot press conference from FAA headquarters in Washington DC. We take a lood at the first year of work with the rule to see what has been accomplished and what still needs to be done. Experimental Aircraft Association (7/19/05)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper gives us an update on the request for regulation change submitted by the USUA. Currently -by regulation- the two seat training exemptions run out very soon, probably too soon to accommodate a smooth transition to Sport Pilot. USUA is requesting a change that allows the exemptions to remain in place for a couple of years longer to help the airsport community adapt to the new regulations. Now is your chance to comment on this regulation change. United States Ultralight Association (7/12/05)

Mary Jones, Experimental Aircraft Association
Mary Jones joins us to talk about the light sport aircraft and ultralight things going on at AirVenture. This is also the one year anniversary of the Sport Pilot announcement. She also has at her fingertips some very interesting statistics from the FAA that she will share with us. I wonder how we will get everything in. www.eaa.org (7/12/05)

John Ballantyne, Trike Instructor and Designated Sport Pilot Examiner
The National Transportation Safety Board has sent an investigator to the scene of last week's crash in Jackson Hole, Wyoming that resulted in the death of John Walton. The investigator, Aaron Sauer of the NTSB's regional office in Denver, has performed an initial examination of the wreckage and had discussions with National Park Service officials and local FAA inspectors. The accident vehicle has been identified as a CGS Hawk Arrow, an experimental, kit-built airplane which means that the NTSB will conduct a typical field investigation of the accident. John Ballantyne joins us to talk about the media focus on this event and what the political ramifications may be for light and ultralight sport aviation. E-mail John (7/5/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
We talk about the fact that there are only 19 months left for ultralight pilots to be able to take advantage of the grandfathering into Sport Pilot. Contrast that with the nine months that have already passed since the rule became active. The good news is that Paul Hamilton just finished the last tool in a set to help make the Sport Pilot transition as painless as possible. Adventure Productions (6/28/05)

Earl Lawrence, EAA VIce President of Industry and Regulatory Affairs
Earl Lawrence joins us to talk about a new (and limited time) survey for those in the airsports world. The EAA and FAA have joined together to conduct a survey to gauge the interest level in Sport Pilot and Light-Sport Aircraft (SP/LSA). The FAA plans to use this data to help plan infrastructure development for the new recreational flying category. Earl tells us about the survey and why it is important. Take the Survey (It doesn't take much time.) (6/21/05)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper joins us to talk about a request for a regulation change that the USUA is submitting. Currently -by regulation- the exemptions run out very soon, probably too soon to accomodate a smooth transition to Sport Pilot. USUA is requesting a change that allows the exemptions to remain in place for a couple of years longer to help the sport adapt to the new regulations. United States Ultralight Association (6/14/05)

Brian & Carol Carpenter, Rainbow Aviation
The Carpenters have done something that no other sport aviation school has done. They have created an FAA approved program for the 16 hour condition inspection course for E-LSA owners. Their achievement becomes most apparent when you realize that only they and the EAA have gotten programs approved so far. Brian and Carol join us to tell us how they did it. Rainbow Aviation (6/14/05)

Rusty Sachs, NAFI Executive Director
The National Association of Flight Instructors has been presenting forums at fly-ins for flight instructors that want to learn more about Sport Pilot and how to get involved in the lighter side of the industry. We talk about when and where these talks are taking place and how instructors can benefit. National Association of Flight Instructors (6/14/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Paul Hamilton just got back from the Golden West Fly-In and he gives us a report on the Fly-In, the NAFI seminars, the Sport Pilot Tour and more. He also talks about how he managed to persuade a less than enthusiastic FAA flight standards district office to get his trike an airworthiness inspection. Adventure Productions (6/7/05)

Charlie Becker, Experimental Aircraft Association
Just think, last week we were talking to Earl Lawrence about the 16 hour sport pilot inspection course that allows LSA owners to do their own annuals. Now this week, we are able to announce that two courses have been accepted by the FAA and one of them was put together for airplanes by Charlie Becker from the EAA. Of course he tells us all about it. Experimental Aircraft Association, EAA Sport Pilot (6/7/05)

Chuck King, Rocky Mountain EAA Fly-In
Chuck King tells us about the 2005 Rocky Mountain EAA Regional Fly-In at Denver's Front Range Airport in Colorado. This is a growing event that is attracting more planes every year and offers fun for the whole family. www.rmrfi.org/ (6/7/05)

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
Earl Lawrence updates us on an area of light sport aircraft and sport pilot that folks have been talking about, the 16 hour class required for LSA owners to do their own annual inspections. Earl also talks about all of the things you can do without even taking that 16 hour course. Experimental Aircraft Association (5/31/05)

Dan Johnson, ByDanJohnson.com
Dan Johnson is back from the ASTM meetings in Reno and he reports on the news, including big news for trikes. We talk about aircraft that are now being produced as Special Light Sport Aircraft (S-LSA) and what that means to the industry. ByDanJohnson.com (5/24/05)

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)

Denis Porter, President, Paso Robles Ultralight Association
The Paso Robles Ultralight Association's fight against the ban imposed by the Paso Robles Airport has moved forward. Denis Porter tells us about a recent meeting that included representatives from the Paso Robles Ultralight Association, the airport manager, city council, the city manager's office, and the FAA. Denis also gives advice to other clubs that may find themselves in this position. vdrivedenis@juno.com (5/10/05)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Lots of news from Dale Hooper and USUA. The USUA 3rd Party Liability Insurance is going into its second year and is now available for planes weighing up to 1150 pounds. Dale tells us about some meetings that the organizations had with the FAA in Florida during Sun 'n Fun. The Scottsburg MOA is back in the news. And of course the big news about USUA moving across to UltraFlight Magazine for the main source of USUA news. United States Ultralight Association (5/3/05)

Charlie Becker, Experimental Aircraft Association
A lot of pilots have wondered how to convert their fat ultralights and two-place ultralight trainers into E-LSA (Experimental-Light Sport Aircraft) machines. The EAA is now offering an E-LSA Conversion Kit that not only offers a great step-by-step instruction book, it also has copies of the forms required and the placards needed for your aircraft. Charlie Becker tells us all about it. Experimental Aircraft Association, EAA Sport Pilot (5/3/05)

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)

UltraFlight Radio is 3 Years Old
We start the show with a review of the past three years and talk a little about the growth and future of UltraFlight Radio. Many thanks to our listeners. The UltraFlight Radio web site had 916,917 hits in just March of 2005 and well over 3 million hits so far this year. (4/26/05)

John Ballantyne, Trike Instructor and Designated Sport Pilot Examiner
Terri Sipantzi, New Sport Pilot Trike Certified Flight Instructor
Terri Sipantzi became the first 'Civilian' CFI-Weight-Shift Instructor Authorized by a non-FAA Employee. He and John Ballantyne, his DPE, talk to us about what the practical test was like from both sides of the clipboard. E-mail John (4/26/05)

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)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver tells us about recent Sport Pilot news. The third Designated Pilot Examiner class has graduated and the third and fourth classes are lined up. Lots of news Sun 'n Fun, too. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (4/19/05)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Sport Pilot Certified Flight Instructors are given a lot of responsibility and authority. In fact, they have authority that has not really been given to Certified Flight Instructors in the past. Marty Weaver tells us about how CFIs are able to do some of the things once only associated with DPEs. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (4/19/05)

Reggie DeLoach, United States Ultralight Association
USUA has a major announcement coming out of Sun 'n Fun. I hate to keep you in suspense, but you will have to listen to hear the announcement from the President of USUA himself, Reggie DeLoach. United States Ultralight Association (4/19/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Paul Hamilton has been busy in Florida. He takes time from his Sun 'n Fun activities to talk with us about completing the most recent FAA Designated Pilot Examiner course held in Sebring last week. Adventure Productions (4/12/05)

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)

Les Sargent, FAA Designee Standardization Branch
Les Sargent has some great news for us. FAA Order 8130.2F, Change 1 is being published. Don't think that is exciting, eh? Well that means that the first Light Sport Aircraft Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR) class will be held on April 27 & 28. Still not there yet? This means that the sport aircraft community will soon have the people on the ground needed to transition fat ultralights and ultralight trainers into the LSAs. Les will explain it all to us. http://afs600.faa.gov/
http://www.faa.gov/certification/aircraft/av-info/dst/default.htm (Part 1) (4/5/05)

John Ballantyne, Trike Instructor and Designated Sport Pilot Examiner
John Ballantyne is one of the graduates of the second DPE course held for Sport Pilot Examiners in Sebring, Florida. He joins us to talk about his experiences there and to give people tips on passing the check ride. E-mail John (3/29/05)

Dan Johnson, ByDanJohnson.com
Dan Johnson is getting ready to go overseas again, this time to Germany for Aero Friedrichshafen. He tells us about the show and what he is hoping to do there for the light sport aircraft community. Aero Friedrichshafen, ByDanJohnson, LAMA (3/29/05)

Rusty Sachs, NAFI Executive Director
The National Association of Flight Instructors has been pretty busy in the last year translating rules coming down from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Department of Homeland Security. Rusty Sachs explains what those rules are and what flight instructors need to do to abide by them. National Association of Flight Instructors (Part 1) (3/22/05)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
The USUA has gone to bat for the Scottsburg Aero Club by opposing the notice of a proposed Military Operating Area (MOA) that would negatively impact sport aviation activity in that part of Indianna. Dale Hooper joins us to tell us what has been done so far. United States Ultralight Association. (3/15/05)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver rolls out some more Sport Pilot News. The new and approved FAA Form 8710-11 is now available. The second Sport Pilot DPE class is getting ready to start and the candidates for the third class are all lined up. There has been a great success rate for those taking the Sport Pilot knowledge test. (I mean, 100% success is pretty good, eh?) And last and certainly not least, an important meeting is coming up soon in Oklahoma City. Of course Marty gives us the scoop. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (Part 1) (3/8/05)

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)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper recaps this year's USUA Annual Member Meeting in Springfield, Illinois. USUA has turned the corner and there were a lot of positive people talking about the future of ultralights, light sport aviation and USUA itself. United States Ultralight Association. (3/1/05)

Earl Lawrence, EAA Vice-President of Government and Industry Relations
Earl Lawrence was there when the FAA signed and approved the first consensus standards for Light Sport Aircraft. Earl talks about what this means for the sport and the equipment producers. Experimental Aircraft Association (3/1/05)

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)

Joe Norris, EAA Senior Aviation Specialist
Joe Norris was appointed the nation's first designated airworthiness representative (DAR) for function codes 47 (Experimental-Light-Sport aircraft) and 48 (Special-Light-Sport Aircraft) on Thursday, February 17. FAA Aircraft Certification Services Director John Hickey presented Norris with his Certificate of Authority at EAA headquarters in Oshkosh, authorizing Norris to perform inspections and issue initial, recurrent, and replacement airworthiness certificates for E-LSAs and S-LSAs. Joe joins us to tell us all about it. Experimental Aircraft Association (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)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Dale Hooper catches us up on USUA news. In just a couple of weeks, USUA will holding their Annual Member Meeting in Springfield, Illinois. This meeting is where members get to meet the USUA board and participate in policy for the upcoming year. United States Ultralight Association (2/15/05)

Paul Hamilton, Adventure Productions
Paul Hamilton joins us to talk about the Sport Pilot transition. You may be surprised to hear what his advice is. He will also talk about the training tools he is developing for the light aircraft public. Adventure Productions (2/15/05)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
A lot has happened since we last visited with Marty Weaver. He talks about the first class of Designated Sport Pilot Examiners as well as the latest board for new examiners. For those that have been boarded and want to attend the next class, we ask when do Knowledge Test results have to be in to be considered for that next class? We talk about transition issues that are coming up for those wanting to become Sport Pilots. (New FAA Form 8710-11) AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (Part 1) (2/8/05)

Les Sargent, FAA Designee Standardization Branch
Les Sargent joins us to talk about the equipment side of Sport Pilot. He tells us about how to apply to the FAA to become a Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR) to transition aircraft into Light Sport Aircraft. He talks about the boards and the selection process. We also talk about the certification of Light Sport Aircraft. Les gives us a lot of detail in this all-important area. http://afs600.faa.gov/AFS640.htm (Part 1) (2/8/05)

Dan Johnson, ByDanJohnson.com
Dan Johnson gives us an update on the Sport Pilot Tour. This is a concept that is catching on with many different manufacturers. The idea is to jointly promote events with several manufactures at venues that allow prospective sport pilots to fly in a variety of the manufacturer aircraft. ByDanJohnson.com (2/1/05)

Eric Johnson, Sport Pilot DPE-Weight Shift Control
Eric Johnson is one of the two Designated Sport Pilot Examiners for Weight Shift Control graduating from the first Sebring, Florida class. Eric tells us about his take on the class, Sport Pilot, and what trike pilots need to know to get their Sport Pilot licenses. wscexaminer@hotmail.com (2/1/05)

Skip Little, United States Ultralight Association
Skip Little tells us about a petition from the ultralight organizations to the FAA for an exemption to Part 103 standards for the weight of an ultralight. Skip tells us how the exemption would work and how some people believe that it can someday lead to a permanent increase in weight standards for ultralights. United States Ultralight Association Docket No. FAA-2004-19350. (Part 1) (2/1/05)

Morris Yoder, Skyview Powered Parachutes
Morris Yoder joins us to talk about his week in Sebring, Florida where he became the first owner of an ELSA (Experimental Light Sport Aircraft) Powered Parachute. He talks about how that was made to happen as well as his experiences at becoming one of the very first Sport Pilot rated pilots. Skyview Powered Parachutes (1/25/05)

Bill Bardin, Ultralights of Sacramento
Bill Bardin was also in Sebring, Florida. Last week Bill went through the FAA training course and became a Sport Pilot, a Sport Pilot Certified Flight Instructor, a Sport Pilot Designated Pilot Examiner, and a Sport Pilot Designated Flight Instructor Examiner. He achieved all of this despite not having any FAA ratings going into the class. We talk about his experience leading up to his selection for the course, the work he went through at the course, and his new responsibilities. Ultralights of Sacramento (Part 1) (1/25/05)

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)

Denis Porter, President, Paso Robles Ultralight Association
Denis Porter rejoins us to continue his story about how the Paso Robles Ultralight Association have been fighting an ultralight ban at the Paso Robles Airport. They are going through a battle that ultralight pilots have fought and won before, but it is beginning to get costly and it is keeping them out of the sky. Denis joins us to discuss the impacts of the ban, how it came about, and steps that are being taken to get ultralights and light sport aircraft flying again in Paso Robles, California. vdrivedenis@juno.com (1/18/05)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
There is a lot to talk about with Dale. If you are an ultralight pilot or instructor, you can get a recommendation from you exempting organization in order to take both your Sport Pilot Knowledge and Practical Tests for Pilot and CFI ratings. Dale explains how USUA is doing that. There are also insurance issues and UL bans at California Airports. Dale brings news about that, too. And finally there is news about the USUA member meeting that is being held next month in Springfield, IL. United States Ultralight Association (1/11/05)

Denis Porter, President, Paso Robles Ultralight Association
Over the past couple of months, Denis Porter and the Paso Robles Ultralight Association have been fighting an ultralight ban at the Paso Robles Airport. They are going through a battle that ultralight pilots have fought and won before, but it is beginning to get costly and it is keeping them out of the sky. Denis joins us to discuss the impacts of the ban, how it came about, and steps that are being taken to get ultralights and light sport aircraft flying again in Paso Robles, California. vdrivedenis@juno.com (Part 1) (1/11/05)

Phillip Lawrence, Gleim Publications
Phillip Lawrence joins us to talk about the lineup of training materials Gleim offers to prepare for the different FAA knowledge tests. He reviews the history of Gleim, their aviation product line and new offerings for Sport Pilots. Gleim Aviation (1/4/05)

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)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver catches us up on Sport Pilot news. The initial class for Sport Pilot DPEs has been announced. The first class will include these eight DPE candidates:

William D. Bardin, Sacramento, CA, Light Sport Airplanes
John H. Beaman, Portland, OR, Weight Shift Control
Roy C. Beisswenger, Greenville, IL, Powered Parachute
Robert W. Bleadon, Selam, OR, Light Sport Airplanes
Brian Carpenter, Corning, CA, Light Sport Airplanes
Eric W. Johnson, Chandler, AZ, Weight Shift Control
Lawrence L. Littlefield, Boynton Beach, FL, Powered Parachute
George B. Methvin, Jr., Marietta, GA, Light Sport Airplanes

Marty talks about the selection process, the upcoming classes, your questions and more. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (Part 1) (1/4/05)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver catches us up on Sport Pilot news. The initial class for Sport Pilot DPEs has been announced.. Marty talks about the selection process, the upcoming classes, your questions and more. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (Part 2) (1/4/05)

Tomas Backman - CIMA President
Recently Tomas Backman was elected the new president of CIMA, the International Microlight Commission of FAI (Fédération Aéronautique Internationale). Tomas joins us to talk about CIMA and the goals and activities for the international organization. (12/21/04)

John & Martha King, King Schools
Last week Roy promised that he would be taking the CFI-Sport Pilot Powered Parachute Knowledge Test and would report on the results this week. Well, the results are in and it is time to give credit where credit is due. A passing score was achieved and one of the key study tools used were the tapes that John and Martha King developed for the general aviation CFI knowledge tests. We talk about how to successfully prepare for the Sport Pilot CFI knowledge exams using those existing guides. The King Schools (12/21/04)

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)

John Ballantyne, Trike Instructor
Last week it was announced on the UltraFlight Radio Show that DPE candidates that were accepted into the program and ranked high enough in points to go to the first Sport Pilot DPE school to be held January 17, 2005 in Sebring, Florida, would have to pass one more hurdle. That hurdle was taking and passing the new Sport Pilot CFI or DPE test as appropriate by December 17th, only ten days later. As an existing Certified Flight Instructor, John Ballantyne was asked to take the "weight shift control" version of the Sport Pilot DPE test. John quickly gathered his materials, studied, took, and passed the test. He joins us to talk about test taking strategies that newcomers to FAA tests want to consider. jballantyne1@earthlink.net (12/14/04)

Greg Gremminger, Magni Gyro
Greg Gremminger explains a situation that is going to effect a lot of gyro pilots. Currently, a lot of gyro pilots fly their machines with a regular private pilot ticket. Under the old experimental rules, that was OK. But one of the things that happened with the Sport Pilot initiative is that will no longer be allowed. So, gyro pilots will need to get a rotor rating in order to fly as private pilots. Greg explains the way that transition is shaping up. Magni Gyro USA (12/7/04)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver reports in with a lot of Sport Pilot news for us. The initial Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) board was just held and Marty talks about the results and what is next for those that get a good letter. Along with that news, Marty talks about the FAA notice issued to FAA field offices giving directions for the issuance of Student Pilot Certificates to Sport Pilot Candidates. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (12/7/04)

Lars Eriksson, pilotmix.com
Lars Eriksson reports in on the ultralight-light sport aircraft scene in Sweden. We talk about regulations, what people are flying and more. He also introduces us to the light aviation on-line database, pilotmix.com. (11/30/04)

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)

Dan Johnson, ByDanJohnson.com
Dan Johnson is working to promote the entire light sport aircraft world to the general public. He is working with manufacturers and others in the industry to reach out to the public through several different venues and educate them about flying and what a great, accessible sport we enjoy. The idea is, that by pooling resources, the light aviation world can reach out to a larger market in a way that everyone benefits. ByDanJohnson.com (11/30/04)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver has lots of Sport Pilot news for us. The initial Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) applications are coming in and Marty has some tips for those finishing up their applications today. Along with the news, Marty will answer a few Sport Pilot questions that have come over the last week or so. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (11/23/04)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver has lots of Sport Pilot news for us. In this segment, Marty answers a few Sport Pilot questions that have come over the last week or so. Such as, "If I am already a private pilot, what do I have to do to get a Sport Pilot license?", "Will Biannual Flight Reviews be required for Sport Pilots?", "When will Practical Test Standards for Sport Pilot be ready?", "When will the FAA start to certify S-LSA aircraft?" and more. AFS 600, The Sport Pilot Branch (11/23/04)

Dave Hempy, U.S.A. Delegate to the FAI Microlight Commission
Dave spent the weekend in Lausanne, Switzerland. He was there to represent the United States at the 2004 meeting of the FAI Microlight Commission. Learn about what is new in the world of Microlight competition on the international level. FAI Microlight Commission, United States Ultralight Association (11/16/04)

Keith Negal, UK Delegate to the European Microlight Federation
Keith Negal reports on a relatively new organization, the European Microlight Federation. He tells us why the EMF was formed. He also tells us some of the early successes of the federation. European Microlight Federation (11/16/04)

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)

Phil Lockwood, Lockwood Aviation
Phil Lockwood has really been recognized this year. He is the winner of several awards including the prestigious USUA Moody Award. Phil joins a stellar group of individuals in the industry, including Jack McCornack, Wayne Ison , Tom Peghiny, Homer Kolb, Dan Johnson, Vincent Vitollo, Boris Popov, John Ballantyne, Dr. Henry O. Malone, Charles Slusarczyk and Dennis Pagen. We talk about some of the things he has done. www.lockwood-aviation.com. (11/9/04)

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)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Last time we had Dale Hooper on the show, he had so much good news that we ran out of time before we could get it all in. This time, not all is good. Dale reports to us the sad news about John Moody's recent accident at the Augusta Airshow. Of course John Moody is known as the father of ultralights and has an award given in his name by the United States Ultralight Association. John is without medical insurance and could sure use your help. You can find out how at this World Airshow News link. Dale also has more news about the next USUA national convention. www.usua.org/ (Part 1, Sport Pilot Expo, John Moody) (11/2/04)

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)

Part 103, Sport Pilot, Light Sport Aircraft, Consensus Standards, Airport Access Issues, exemptions. Even the US Constitution! We cover it like no one else!

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
It has been a while since we visited with Dale Hooper, Executive Vice President of USUA. The man has been busy traveling and working on ultralight issues. He joins us to give us an update on what is going on with USUA and makes award annoucements, including this year's Moody Award winner. Hear about it first on UltraFlight Radio. www.usua.org/ (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. 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
Questions of course are still out there about Sport Pilot. Jim Sweeney joins us to talk about what you can do next to take advantage of the new rule and when you can do it. 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 (Part 1) (10/5/04)

Sue Gardner, Federal Aviation Administration
Sue Gardner joins us again to go over the implementation schedule for Sport Pilot. She talks about the infrastructure being put in place for people that want to conduct operations and seek certification under the new regulations. To follow along as we go over the schedule for implementation, visit the link: Sport Pilot Milestones. (Part 1) (9/28/04)

Sue Gardner, Federal Aviation Administration
Part 2 of Sue Gardner's interview regarding the implementation schedule for Sport Pilot. She talks about the infrastructure being put in place for people that want to conduct operations and seek certification under the new regulations. To follow along as we go over the schedule for implementation, visit the link: Sport Pilot Milestones. We also take a couple of questions from the audience. (Part 2) (9/28/04)

Sue Gardner, Federal Aviation Administration
Now that Sport Pilot is a rule, it does not mean that Sue Gardner's work is all finished. Now that Sport Pilot is in the implementation phase, there are even more projects being worked. Sue talks about an educational video project that she just completed, about the implementation meeting in Oklahoma City, and the updated time lines for Sport Pilot implementation. Lots of information about the new rule. www.faa.gov/avr/afs/sportpilot/index.cfm (9/21/04)

Doug Macnair, EAA VP for Government Relations
Politicians are at it again. The Experimental Aircraft Association is urging its members and all aviation enthusiasts to contact their Congressional representatives and strongly oppose a newly introduced bill by Rep. Anthony Weiner (D-N.Y.) Doug Macnair tells us how this bill (H.R. 5035) would require the Department of Homeland Security to create a method of screening all passengers and property on each flight of all passenger aircraft in the U.S., including general aviation aircraft of all types. It would also prohibit any non-airline aircraft from flying within 1,500 feet of any structure or building, and flat out prohibit non-airline aircraft from flying over any U.S. city with a population of 1 million or more. www.eaa.org (9/14/04)

John Lasko, Quicksilver Manufacturing
With all the hubbub about Sport Pilot taking effect on 1 September and talk of implementation meetings and the like, it is easy to forget that there are some pilots that can take advantage of Sport Pilot right now. One of the first, (if not the first) pilots taking advantage of this new rule is John Lasko from Quicksilver. He tells us how. www.quicksilveraircraft.com (9/14/04)

Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF Board Member
Jim is back from the Sport Pilot Implementation Meeting in Oklahoma City. He gives us a report on all of the things that happened there last week. Jim has updated FAA time lines and other good news for people watching Sport Pilot. www.usua.org, www.nappf.com (9/14/04)

John & Martha King, King Schools
John and Martha catch us up on what they are doing in the Sport Pilot world. We chat with them as they leave for the Sport Pilot Implementation meeting in Oklahoma City. www.kingschool.com/ (9/7/04)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
There are a lot of things going on with Sport Pilot and Marty Weaver catches us up with the news. Sport Pilot takes effect on 1 September and he tells us what that means to ultralight pilots that are and are not involved in one of the ultralight programs. Lots of listener questions are answered. afs600.faa.gov/AFS610.htm (8/31/04)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
There are a lot of things going on with Sport Pilot and Marty Weaver catches us up with the news. Marty tells us about a Sport Pilot Implementation Meeting is going to take place next week. We talk about the things that need to be accomplished. afs600.faa.gov/AFS610.htm (8/31/04)

Arlene Thomas, Fostaire Helicopters
On August 11, two NBC reporters posing as foreign businessmen attempted to charter a helicopter at Fostaire Helicopters. Of course most foreign businessmen don't travel with backpacks concealing box cutters and knives. The folks at Fostaire did the right thing by contacting the FBI and the local police, but what was NBC thinking? www.fostaire.com/ (8/17/04)

Ben Morrow, EAA Ultralight Council
Most people don't know where a lot of the training material comes from that we use in ultralight training. Ben Morrow has spent a lot of time creating those materials. Ben has also made those materials easy to get from the internet. From the EAA Ultralights page, you can visit pages where you can take refresher courses on line and can get copies of training manuals on line. Ben walks us through the process. www.safetydata.com/ufirc/ufirc.htm www.safetydata.com/manual/cover.htm (8/17/04)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Marty Weaver just got back from AirVenture in Oshkosh where he met a lot of pilots and answered a lot of questions about Sport Pilot and Light Sport Aircraft. He answers those questions (and some of our own) for us here. afs600.faa.gov/AFS610.htm (8/10/04)

John Yonkin, WhisperHawk Aviation
When Sport Pilot was announced at FAA headquarters in Washington, D.C. last month, three aircraft fitting the Light Sport Aircraft classification were on display. As the owner of one of the aircraft, John Yonkin was one of the very few people at the press event that was not a member of the FAA person, in the leadership of an aviation organization, or a member of the press. We get a "regular pilot's" few of the FAA HQ's from John. www.whisperhawk.com/ (8/10/04)

John Ballantyne
John Ballantyne is someone else that has been researching Sport Pilot. He has read the rule and attended as many briefings on the subject as possible at AirVenture. He joins us to talk about some of the less discussed aspects of Sport Pilot. (8/3/04)

Sue Gardner, Federal Avaiation Administration
Well, it finally happened last week. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued new certification requirements for light-sport aircraft, pilots and repairmen. With the goal of making recreational flying safer while keeping it affordable and fun, Sport Pilot is now official. Sue Gardner joins us to talk about the new rule. www.faa.gov/avr/afs/sportpilot/index.cfm (7/27/04)

Martin Weaver, FAA Branch Manager, Sport Pilot
Earlier this year Marty Weaver got the job of putting together the organization that will actually implement the new sport pilot rules. He joins us to talk about how pilots can transition to the new program. afs600.faa.gov/AFS610.htm (7/27/04)

Marion Blakey, FAA Administrator, Sport Pilot News Conference
This is the actual audio from the press conference at the FAA headquarters announcing the new Sport Pilot Regulations. The segment begins with an interview with Earl Lawrence and breaks away to the news conference as it happens live. Hear for yourself what was said about sport pilot by FAA Administrator Marion C. Blakey and her staff. (7/20/04)

Earl Lawrence, EAA & Jim Sweeney, USUA and NAPPF
Earl Lawrence and Jim Sweeney join us to discuss the Sport Pilot news conference and to answer your questions. www.eaa.org www.sportpilot.org www.usua.org www.nappf.com www.sportpilot.info (Part 1) (7/20/04)

Gregory J. Reigel, Reigel & Associates, Ltd.
You are standing on the ramp performing a pre-flight inspection. A man who you have never seen before approaches you and starts chatting about the weather and asking you questions: “What’s your name?”, “Where are you going?” etc. How do you respond? Gregory Reigel talks to us about how to survive an FAA Ramp Check. www.aerolegalservices.com (7/13/04)

Dan Johnson, Light-Sport Aircraft Promotional Board
Dan Johnson talks about reaching out to the general public with the message of our exciting version of flight. For years people have been talking about organizing a group that promotes ultralight aviation to the average person. Dan is now doing it! www.bydanjohnson.com/ (7/6/04)

Roy Beisswenger & Michael Purdy
With Sport Pilot on the horizon, the FAA seems to be taking a stronger interest in ultralight incidents and violations. If you aren't flying legally, you may want to get legal. (7/6/04)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
Recently one of the ultralight two-place training exemption holding organizations began sending out letters to their instructors. The organization was charging $25 to process requests for becoming designated pilot examiners under the sport pilot program. This resulted in an "emergency" teleconference with ALL ultralight two-place training exemption holding organizations. Dale Hooper tells us what happened in the meeting and how the process is supposed to work. www.usua.org/ (7/6/04)

Dale Hooper, United States Ultralight Association
In a ground breaking effort to open the doors of communication between the ultralight aviation community and the Department Of Homeland Security, USUA staff participated in a teleconference with several members of the Transportation Security Administration. Dale Hooper tells us all about it. www.usua.org/ (6/29/04)

Earl Lawrence, EAA
EAA Vice President of Government and Industry Affairs, Earl Lawrence, visited OMB with fellow ASTM Committee chairmen Phillip Lockwood and Eric Tucker. Their purpose was to talk about the approval of the Sport Pilot rule. Learn what it is like to visit one of the most powerful offices in government . www.sportpilot.org (6/22/04)

Roy Beisswenger and Michael Purdy
The hosts talk about how the better examples of pilots in the world of aviation like everything that flies and contrast that with people that attack or belittle other styles of flying. (6/15/04)

Roy Beisswenger and Michael Purdy
The hosts talk about how the new Sport Pilot rule has moved into back to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The discussion turns to the use of the organizational training exemptions to Part 103. (6/8/04)

Jim Sweeney, NAPPF President and USUA Board Member
Jim gives us a report on Special Light Sport Aircraft and the ASTM F37 Committee. Learn about the different types of certifications that will exist under sport pilot. (6/1/04)

Gregg Ellsworth, BRS
Gregg Ellsworth has just gotten back from the ASTM meetings in Salt Lake City, UT. This is part of BRS's commitment to make ballistic chutes available to the new category of light sport planes. He tells us about things that are going on both in the ASTM process and in the BRS factory. brsparachutes.com (5/25/04)

Doug Macnair, Vice President of Government Relations with the EAA
Doug has been on the leading edge of the battle combating the ill advised and controversial Air Tour Rule (although he might personally choose more diplomatic wording!) Learn about the status of this potential rule and how it could have a chilling effect on aviation. www.eaa.org (5/18/04)

Randy Hansen, EAA
Temporary Flight Restrictions or TFR's can happen anytime. But with the presidential campaign season upon us, we are beginning to see an even greater proliferation of the temporary "No-Fly" zones. Randy Hansen joins us to explain how we can avoid meeting attack helicopters while flying around our respective little patches of sky!

He also tells us about a new Advisory Circular that lays out the new rules about TFR's. You can get your copy of AC 91-63C at: www.faa.gov/ats/ata/ai/index.html (5/11/04)

Dale Hooper, USUA
By withdrawing the Sport Pilot Rule by FAA's own request at this time, it could save the rule from being rejected by OMB, and keep it from having to pass through the entire regulatory process once again -- possibly avoiding a rewrite or worse. USUA applauds FAA for taking this action. Dale Hooper joins us to tell us more about USUA's take on this unfolding situation. www.usua.org (3/30/04)

Bob Warner, Executive Vice President, EAA
The EAA is doing a survey is to help evaluate the needs and preferences of ultralight pilots regarding insurance for single-place ultralight vehicles. Bob Warner joins us to talk about the challenges of ultralight insurance. In order to take the survey go to: www.eaa.org/survey/ulins.html (3/23/04)

Jack McCornack, Ultralight Writer & More
Jack McCornack has earned the Moody Award for his more than 25 years as an educator, designer, writer and pilot. Jack has trained pilots in preparation for national and international competition. In addition, he has participated in the World Air Games and the World Microlight Competition. In 1978, Pterodactyl Ltd. - founded by Jack was the only ultralight manufacturer with a formal flight training system. The training manual entered the public domain when it was published in Glider Rider; now Ultralight Flying! Magazine. Other manufacturers were allowed to copy or revise the Pterodactyl Ptraining Syllabus and they did not have to pay any royalties. www.usua.org/HotNews/Archives/20031213.html (3/16/04)

Mike Engel, Wisconsin Powered Parachute Association
The Wisconsin Powered Parachute Association is holding their 3rd Annual Powered Parachute Clinic this weekend at the EAA AirVenture Museum Building in the Goldwater Room. Mike tells us about this Free event that will help attendees learn more about powered parachutes and ultralight flying in general. www.wisconsinppa.org (3/16/04)

Dan Johnson, EAA
Dan Johnson is taking on a new responsibility in the emerging world of Sport Pilot and Light-Sport Aircraft. He has been retained by the EAA to implement programs and activities that will help people discover the opportunities available within these exciting new categories of pilots and aircraft. Of course he will tell us all about it! www.sportpilot.org (3/9/04)

Dale Hooper, USUA
Well the USUA Annual Meeting was a great success! Dale Hooper joins us to give us a report about all of the great things that happened over the weekend in Springfield, IL. This year's award winners are announced. usua.org (3/2/04)

Dale Hooper, USUA
This year's USUA Annual Meeting will be held in Springfield, IL in conjunction with the Illinois Ultralight Safety Seminar. Find out what is going to be talked about there including news of about USUA award winners. usua.org. (2/24/04)

Jim Sweeney, NAPPF President and USUA Board Member
As we wait for the Sport Pilot NPRM to become the Sport Pilot rules, Jim explains the process with which aircraft are going to be certified as they leave the factory under sport pilot. If you have ever wondered how that process is supposed to work, tune in Jim's explanation. (Part 1) (2/17/04)

Master Sergeant Leonard Richard, Illinois State Police
Master Sergeant Leo Richard is the Northern Commander of the Illinois State Police Air Operations Section. His areas of responsibility include several counties including Cook, Will, Dupage, Kane, Kendall, Whiteside and Kankakee (most counties north of Champaign, IL). He will talk about the Illinois State Police's role in investigating complaints of unsafe ultralight/aviation practices. (2/10/04)

Bob Comperini, United States Ultralight Association
Bob Comperini is the webmaster behind the usua.org web site. This very useful site is a great member resource and useful for anyone in the sport of ultralighting. Bob joins us to go through some of the features of the site. usua.org Fly-UL (2/10/04)

Peter Schmidt, American Free Skies Association
Believe it or not, there are those that would like to ban pilots from flying in sky above their property. Peter Schmidt has first-hand knowledge at what kind of grief these people can cause and has created the American Free Skies Association. See how you can get involved. freeskies.org (1/27/04)

Larry Burke, Light Aircraft Manufacturing Association
LAMA has been in the volunteer standards business for ultralight and light sport aircraft even before the term "light sport aircraft" was out there. Now with Sport Pilot on the horizon, LAMA is becoming more important to manufacturers. www.lama.bz (1/27/04)

Dale Hooper, USUA
Ultralight Insurance is becoming a big issue for pilots wanting to base and fly out of GA airports. USUA has worked to provide insurance for the ultralight community. Learn more from Dale Hooper. www.usua.org/Insurance/Insurance.html (1/13/04)

Joe Norris, EAA
The details of getting two seat and fat ultralights FAA certified will become a big issue as Sport Pilot gets closer. Joe Norris joins us to talk about Phase I operational limitations and whether a builder can fly the first 40 hours of flight off as a student pilot. www.eaa.org (1/13/04)

Melissa Bailey, AOPA
There is a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would more than double the flight hours a pilot would be required to have before being eligible to help with charity fund raising flights and would, by the FAA's own estimation, drive hundreds of small sightseeing operations out of the business. Melissa Bailey from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association joins us to explain how we can get involved. News Item, AOPA Regulatory Brief, Yahoo Airtour Group (1/6/04)

Jon Thornburgh
Jon joins us to talk about the glider-PPC project. The glider-PPC project builds on the successes of the glider-trike program. In the glider-PPC program you would be able to pilot an experimental certified powered parachute with a glider pilot license. The advantages include no FAA physical requirements and fewer training hours. www.ultraflight.com (1/6/04)

Jon Thornburgh
Jon continues his conversation with us. He talks about the YETA program. YETA is a proposed project to get young people involved in aviation by taking advantage of the ease of learning in parawing machines. www.ultraflight.com (1/6/04)

Dale Hooper, USUA
Dale Hooper, the new United States Ultralight Association Vice-President, joins us with some exciting news about ultralight insurance that will help a lot of ultralight pilots around the country. www.usua.org (12/9/03)

Roy Beisswenger, UltraFlight Radio
America's contemporary tort system has come under increasing criticism for being far too costly and incapable of administering fair and prompt awards. This hurts the ultralight aviation industry because it prevents many businesses from getting involved in the sport. It partially explains why it is difficult to get ultralight instruction in the United States. www.house.gov (12/2/03)

Tom Olenik, Olenik Aviation
The conversation about tort reform continues. Tom offers examples of how the legal system has hurt the ultralight industry. When the show is live, Tom Olenik is ready to answer your four stroke and two stroke ultralight aircraft engine questions. Call them in at (888) 514-2100. www.buyitsellitfixit.com (12/2/03)

Gary Dikkers, WI State DOT Aeronautics Division
There is a is a continuing "war" that both public and private airfields (including Ultralight strips) are having with the construction of towers (TV, cell, etc.) near their airfields. Gary Dikkers is in the thick of the battle and tells us what is going on. www.dot.wisconsin.gov/modes/air.htm (11/25/03)

Reggie DeLoach, United States Ultralight Association
USUA is working to represent the ultralight community. Reggie DeLoach introduces the USUA board and Dale Hooper, the newly appointed USUA Executive Vice President. www.usua.org (11/25/03)

Earl Lawrence, EAA
The ASTM process is continuing forward and developing standards for all sorts of light aircraft. Earl Lawrence catches us up in this important area that is helping the industry prepare for the Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft rules. www.sportpilot.org (11/11/03)

Dale Hooper, USUA
Dave Riedel, USUA Club #1
Remembering Richard Pendergist and Michael Moulds
This past weekend we lost two more pilots in the world of Ultralighting. Dale Hooper and Dave Riedel join us to talk about Rich Pendergist (who was heading the day to day operations at USUA) and Mike Moulds. Both were lost while flying this weekend in Virginia. www.usua.org www.usuaclub1.org (Part 1) (10/21/03)

Dale Hooper, USUA
Dave Riedel, USUA Club #1
Remembering Richard Pendergist and Michael Moulds
This past weekend we lost two more pilots in the world of Ultralighting. Dale Hooper and Dave Riedel join us to talk about Rich Pendergist (who was heading the day to day operations at USUA) and Mike Moulds. Both who were lost while flying this weekend in Virginia. www.usua.org www.usuaclub1.org (Part 2) (10/21/03)

Rich Pendergist, USUA
Rich Pendergist joins us with an update from the United States Ultralight Association. usua.org (10/7/03)

Joe Tilton, NASA
Joe Tilton tells us about the Small Aircraft Transportation System. SATS is a fasinating combination of modern technology and light aircraft for transportation use. The test bed for this project is an ultralight! sats.larc.nasa.gov/main.html (10/7/03)

Randy Hansen, EAA
On August 11, 2003, the FAA announced that they were asking for public review and comments on the draft (new) AC 20-27F, Certification and Operation of Amateur-Built Aircraft. The time is up for returning comments on this important document and Randy Hansen joins us to tell us what kinds of comments were forwarded through the EAA.

A copy of the the existing AC 20-27E can be found at: http://av-info.faa.gov/dst/amateur/ac20-27e.pdf EAA.org (9/23/03)

Dan Johnson, BRS
The ASTM Standards for Ballistic Recovery Systems is all but complete. Dan Johnson, the chairman of the ASTM committee on ballistic systems shares some of the details with us. brsparachutes.com/ (9/16/03)

Mark Forss, EAA
Mark Forss is busy working on plans to roll out educational programs to support Sport Pilot when it is implemented. A big area of concern is providing training to pilot/owners that want to continue to maintain their own aircraft under sport pilot. sportair.com (9/16/03)

Harry Riggs, EAA Legal Advisory Council
What happens if you have an off field landing in an unfriendly farmer's field? Situations and state laws vary, but lean about some of the considerations you should keep in mind if you end up in that situation. www.eaa.org (9/2/03)

Ron Wagner, Experimental Aircraft Association
Sport Pilot is still something that is in the works. Ron Wagner updates us on the rule and lets us know which desk the paperwork is sitting on! www.sportpilot.org (8/26/03)

Jim Sweeney, NAPPF
Everyone has been waiting with baited breath for announcements and news about Sport Pilot from Oshkosh. Jim was there and will share what there is to know. www.nappf.com (8/5/03)

Warren Morningstar, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association
All of aviation has been hurt by increased terrorist threats. The AOAP has developed the Airport Watch program which is modeled on the popular neighborhood watch program and asks general aviation pilots and others on GA airports to watch for and report any possible criminal or terrorist activity. www.aopa.org (7/22/03)

Carla Larsh, President, EAA Ultralight Council
We welcome Carla as President of the EAA Ultralight Council and ask her some sport pilot questions. As time marches on to the date when Sport Pilot is announced, we learn how you can best prepare yourself for the transition. www.sportpilot.org (6/24/03)

Roy Beisswenger & Michael Purdy
We welcome Carla Larsh as President of the EAA Ultralight Council. News about the World Powered Parachute Championship. The growth of the internet radio format. www.chute-out.com (6/17/03)

Theresa Smith, Washington State Dept. of Transportation
There are so many stories out there about how airports are lost to development and a lack of planning. The WSDOT has begun to address this problem in their state. Theresa Smith joins us to tell us how. www.wsdot.wa.gov/aviation/ (6/3/03)

Bill Gius, WPPA
After nearly a three year effort by local Fond du Lac ultralight pilots, the Fond du Lac County board unanimously voted to revise the ordinance which has banned all ultralights from the airport since 1997. Learn how local and national organizations worked together to make this happen. (5/27/03)

Kathy Lubitz, Ultralight Pilots Association of Canada
Are you a Canadian ultralight pilot? Maybe you are an American wanting to fly your ultralight in Canada. Learn about the rules pertaining to those flights from Kathy Lubitz of the UPAC. www.upac.ca (5/27/03)

Jim Sweeney, NAPPF
So what is a congested area? How close can you fly your ultralight to buildings or folks on the ground. Jim discusses those thorny issues with us here. www.nappf.com (5/20/03)

Mary Jones, Editor of Experimenter Magazine
The EAA is preparing to roll out a new magazine in anticipation of the new Sport Pilot regulations. Learn more about the anticipated magazine. www.sportpilot.org/ (5/13/03)

Tom Peghiny, Flightstar, Inc.
Tom is chairman of the ASTM Subcommittee for Fixed Wing Light Sport Aircraft (LSA). That committee is responsible for writing the consensus standards for fixed wing aircraft to be built under the anticipated LSA rules. The subcommittee accomplished a lot in last week's meetings in Kansas City and Tom will tell us all about it! www.fly-flightstar.com (5/13/03)

Greg Gremminger, Magni USA
Greg is chairman of the ASTM Subcommittee for Rotor Wing Light Sport Aircraft (LSA). His committee is responsible for writing the consensus standards for gyros to be built under the anticipated LSA rules. Greg will tell us about his progress at the meetings held in Kansas City last week. www.magnigyro.com/USA/usa.htm (5/13/03)

Joe Tilton, SATS Expo Chairman
The 4th Annual Small Aircraft Transportation System Expo just wrapped up. SATS' initial focus is to prove that four new operating capabilities will enable safe and affordable access to virtually any runway in the nation in most weather conditions. Learn how this program could effect ultralight flight in the future. sats.nasa.gov/ (5/6/03)

Sol Lovas, Powered Parachute Instructor and NAPPF Board Member
There are lots of female skydivers in the USA. So we know that women like the sky and enjoy the thrill of flight. But why aren't there more female powered parachute pilots? Sol helps us answer that question. www.montanapowerchutes.com/ (5/6/03)

Jim Sweeney, NAPPF
Did you ever want to use your ultralight to make a little side money? Jim joins us to explain the legalities of such an enterprise. www.nappf.com (4/29/03)

Randy Hansen, EAA
Even members of the U.S. House of Representatives call the Meigs Airport closure "unprecedented," "illegal," and "outrageous". Randy joins us to give us an update on this travesty against all aviation. www.eaa.org and www.fri

Ron Wagner, EAA
When people get together face-to-face, a lot gets done and a lot of good information is passed along. Learn what Ron learned about Sport Pilot at Sun 'n Fun. www.eaa.org
http://www.sportpilot.org/ (4/22/03)

Roy & Michael
Other Sport Pilot news. Flying politely. (4/22/03)

Roy & Michael, Update on ASC Peer Review
More details about the peer review fiasco in taking place with ASC. (4/15/03)

Roy & Michael
New home for UltraFlight Radio. Happenings at Sun'n Fun. (4/8/03)

Roy & Michael
Discussion about Chicago Mayor Daley's nearly illegitimate closing of Meigs Field. How a dumb pilot nearly shut down flying opportunities in a section of Mexico for PPGs. http://www.petitiononline.com/meigs/petition.html (4/8/03)

Roy & Michael, Secret Trials & Double Jeopardy
Discussion about how ASC runs their flight instructor peer review committee. (4/8/03)

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