FAA Proposes Modernizing Special Airworthiness Certificates

EAA AirVenture 2023

FAA Proposes Modernizing Special Airworthiness Certs

FAA's Mosaic rule making is expected to bring performance-based standards to light sport aircraft certification as well as electric power.

Pipistrel Velis Electro electric-powered airplane — Under the FAA's proposed Mosaic plan, airplanes with electric propulsion would be able to seek approval under light sport airplane regulations. (Photo: Matt Thurber/AIN)

By Matt Thurber • Editor-in-Chief

By Mark Huber • Contributor

July 20, 2023

The FAA has opened the public comment period for its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) governing the modernization of special airworthiness certificates (Mosaic), a move that is expected to expand opportunities for light sport aircraft (LSA), according to the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). Comments on the NPRM are due on or by Oct. 23, 2023.

“Now that the NPRM is being released, we will study it closely and supply focused comments to ensure that the goals of this EAA-inspired initiative remain in the final language developed by the FAA,” said Jack Pelton, EAA chairman and CEO. “We appreciate the work of all those in the FAA who kept this process moving forward. EAA has led the effort on this initiative to expand freedoms while maintaining safety, and we will continue to push forward until it becomes reality.” Pelton said he expected additional discussion on the NPRM this week at the annual EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background. The rest of this article continues for AIN Members with the full report, analysis and background.