SUMMARY:
The Federal Aviation Administration published the long-awaited rule on the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC). Much like a mosaic, this rulemaking is a kaleidoscope of regulatory changes, beginning with the design and certification of light-sport aircraft, then adding changes in sport pilot privileges, as well as technician qualifications. And unrelated, it includes a few editorial changes in the aircraft maintenance and technician certification regulations.
As you walk the flight line at AirVenture Oshkosh this week, you will see the epicenter of new technologies. The introduction of revised regulations on light-sport aircraft should expedite the development and implementation of these new innovative technologies over the coming years.
On July 22, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy introduced the final rule with the help of U.S. Representative Sam Graves (R-MO), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and FAA Deputy Administrator Chris Rocheleau during a press conference at AirVenture Oshkosh. Their presentation stated:
“The Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) final rule makes sweeping changes to the light-sport aircraft category and to sport pilot privileges, expanding a safe alternative to experimental, amateur-built aircraft by:
- Removing the weight limit, which allows for more safety features and safety-design flexibility.
- Encompassing aircraft with higher speeds, more seats and retractable landing gear.
- Allowing for new types of propulsion and modern avionics.
- Allowing aerial work with LSA such as infrastructure and forest inspections, photography/filming, and agricultural surveillance.
- Allowing pilots operating under sport pilot privileges to fly a broader range of aircraft.
- Reducing regulatory requirements by expanding the types of aircraft that qualify as LSA and the types of aircraft pilots can fly under sport pilot privileges.”
The AEA is thoroughly examining the nearly 200 pages of the final rule and will provide a complete review in the next few weeks. To read the final rule on the Federal Register, click here.
Expect to read more on MOSAIC in the September edition of Avionics News. In addition, AEA members will receive a thorough briefing on this topic at the upcoming Regional Meetings in the United States.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact Ric Peri, AEA vice president of government and industry affairs, by email at ricp@aea.net or by phone at 202-589-1144.