Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and Sport Pilot Operations Checklist
This Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and sport pilot operations checklist ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 61.315 (Sport Pilot Privileges and Limitations), FAA AC 90-89 (Amateur-Built Aircraft Operating Rules), ASTM International F2245 LSA airworthiness standards, and FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate requirements for LSA. Designed for sport pilots and LSA operators to verify compliance before and during each flight.
- Industry: Aviation
- Frequency: Per Event
- Estimated Time: 20-30 minutes
- Role: Sport Pilot / LSA Operator
- Total Items: 30
- Compliance: FAA 14 CFR Part 61.315 Sport Pilot Privileges and Limitations, FAA AC 90-89 Amateur-Built and Light Sport Aircraft, ASTM F2245 LSA Airworthiness Standards, FAA 14 CFR Part 91 General Operating Rules, EAA Light Sport Aircraft Operating Guidelines
Pilot Currency and Privileges
Sport pilot certificate and currency.
- Sport pilot certificate current and carried?
- Valid US driver's license serving as medical?
- Biennial Flight Review (BFR) current within 24 months?
- 3 takeoffs and landings in last 90 days (passenger)?
- Sport pilot authorized to fly this aircraft category/class?
LSA Airworthiness
LSA special airworthiness certificate.
- FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate (LSA) displayed in aircraft?
- Aircraft maintained per ASTM F2245 and manufacturer's maintenance manual?
- Annual condition inspection within last 12 months?
- Condition inspection done by FAA-certificated mechanic or repairman (LSA)?
- All manufacturer service bulletins and alerts complied with?
Pre-Flight Inspection
LSA preflight walkround.
- Fuel level adequate for flight plus 20-minute day VFR reserve?
- Correct fuel grade verified (mogas/avgas per AFM)?
- All control surfaces free and correct movement?
- Manufacturer's pre-flight checklist completed?
- Gross weight within 1,320 lb (600 kg) MTOW limit?
Sport Pilot Limitations
Sport pilot operating limitations.
- Flight planned to remain within daylight hours (no night VFR)?
- Flight planned in VFR conditions only (no IMC or clouds)?
- Endorsement obtained for Class B, C, or D airspace (if applicable)?
- Flight altitude within authorized limits (10,000 ft MSL / 2,000 AGL max)?
- No more than one passenger planned?
Weight and Balance
LSA weight and CG check.
- Weight and balance calculated for this flight?
- CG within forward and aft limits in POH/AFM?
- Baggage within weight limit and secured?
- Weight and balance form completed and in aircraft?
- Fuel weight included in weight and balance calculation?
LSA Records
LSA maintenance and flight records.
- Maintenance logbook entries current?
- All open squawks addressed before flight?
- Flight log updated after each flight?
- Hobbs/tach reading recorded for maintenance scheduling?
- LSA Flight Notes
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Why Use This Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and Sport Pilot Operations Checklist?
This light sport aircraft (lsa) and sport pilot operations checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for sport pilot / lsa operator professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.
Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 61.315 Sport Pilot Privileges and Limitations, FAA AC 90-89 Amateur-Built and Light Sport Aircraft, ASTM F2245 LSA Airworthiness Standards, FAA 14 CFR Part 91 General Operating Rules, EAA Light Sport Aircraft Operating Guidelines. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and Sport Pilot Operations Checklist cover?
This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Pilot Currency and Privileges, LSA Airworthiness, Pre-Flight Inspection, Sport Pilot Limitations, Weight and Balance, LSA Records. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.
How often should this checklist be completed?
This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Who should use this Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) and Sport Pilot Operations Checklist?
This checklist is designed for Sport Pilot / LSA Operator professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.
Can I download this checklist as a PDF?
Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.