You may recall that the FAA released the finalized MOSAIC (Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification) rule at EAA AirVenture in July of this year.
The changes related to pilots flying aircraft currently recognized in the light-sport category took effect in October 2025. These include:
- Removing the 1320-pound weight limit for LSA (Light Sport Aircraft)
- Introducing the 59 knot stall speed limit for eligible aircraft
- Allowing sports pilots to fly four-seat aircraft with one passenger
- Allowing pilots to use a valid US Driver’s license for most flight purposes
- Availability of new endorsement options for complex and night flying
There are additional changes under the new rule, those affecting the airworthiness certification of new aircraft, that will take effect in July of 2026. These are:
- Performance-based criteria will replace previous weight limits.
- Allowance will be made for advanced features such as retractable landing gear and controllable-pitch propellers.
- A wider range of aircraft designs and capabilities will be certifiable.
These changes will extend sport pilot privileges to more aviators while also broadening the types of aircraft they can fly.
If you have specific questions about the new rules, please reference the AOPA’s article, “MOSAIC Explained: FAQ” using this link: https://aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2025/august/14/mosaic-explained-faq
