Sport Pilot License

Overview

A Sport Pilot license is an accessible, streamlined FAA certificate for recreational flying in light-sport aircraft (LSA). Training for this license requires fewer hours, lower training costs, and the possibility to bypass the aviation medical exam. Recently, the FAA made changes to modernize the Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC), allowing light sport pilots to fly more types of aircraft (including our 172s) and at night with additional training and endorsements. With these new privileges in place, it is a cost-effective way to start your journey in aviation, whether for pleasure or career.

Key Aspects

  • Economical: Lower cost and training time compared to a private pilot license.

  • Accessible: A valid U.S. driver's license often suffices for medical clearance. To fly at night, a third-class medical certificate is required, or if you've previously failed an FAA medical.

  • Flexible: Expanded privileges to fly more aircraft (including some four-seat planes with a stall speed limit) and fly at night with extra training.

Requirements

  • Minimum Age: At least 17

  • Language: Read, speak, write, and understand English

  • Training: Minimum 20 hours (15 dual, 2 cross-country, 5 solo), often takes 35+ hours

  • Knowledge Test: Pass an FAA written exam

  • Practical Test: Pass a checkride with a Designated Pilot Examiner

Further Information

Learn more about Sport Pilot privileges, requirements, and documentation from these videos

Privileges & Limitations

Sport Pilots Can:

  • Fly approved aircraft - Light-sport aircraft and, under MOSAIC, some general aviation planes

  • Carry a passenger - Up to one passenger permitted

  • Share costs - Split fuel, oil, airport, and rental costs with a passenger

  • Travel at medium altitude - Up to 10,000 ft MSL or 2,000 ft AGL

Sport Pilots Can't:

  • Carry multiple passengers - Only 1 passenger permitted, even in 4-seat aircraft

  • Fly for hire - Only permitted for commercial pilots

  • Fly in Class A airspace - Additional endorsements needed for complex airspace

  • Fly at night - Specific endorsement required

How to Get Started

We list the steps to start learning to fly, whether for Sport Pilot Training, Private Pilot, or Professional. Get a head start with tried-and-true materials and strategies avoid wasting time as you join and learn.

Why choose us?

About the Goodrich Pilot Training Center

The Goodrich Pilot Training Center has been operating in the Greater Binghamton area since 1997. Over the years, dozens of students have experienced the adventure and become professional pilots in the airlines, corporate aviation, and the military.

Looking for a school near you?

The GPTC has Upstate New York pilots covered!

2570 Airport Rd, Johnson City, NY 13790, USA

Costs

At the GPTC, we understand that flight training is expensive. We want you to be free to lay aside financial stress and focus on flying