New LSA rules

[larrywells51]

I haven’t read all the new LSA rules yet since it’s over 700 pages. I own a 1975 Cessna 177RG. I’ll be interested to see if any flexibility has been created relative to installation of equipment, such as the Dynon autopilot, under a field approval outside the STC AML. I currently have the Trio autopilot and am installing the Skyview HDX, Comm, Transponder, ADS-B, etc. I am an IA , doing the work myself, and would prefer the Dynon autopilot functionality even if it’s just the flight director functions.

 

[Raymo]

The new rules clear state (paraphrasing) that any aircraft that is currently certificated (experimental, type, etc.) may not be (re)certified under the new ruling. Only new designs may be considered for the new/updated rules. I think a lot of people were expecting to be able to have their Cessna or Piper suddenly become LSA, which is not the case. I believe you'll have to wait for Dynon to add your aircraft to their STC for the AP servos.

What is not clear to me is whether or not a Sport Pilot can now fly a type certified aircraft that meets the new rules for those pilots. I think that is the case, but could be wrong.

 

[Rhino]

Yes, they can, if the aircraft meets the requirements.

 

[greentips]

LSA pilots can, but with restrictions. The new rules allow 4 place airplanes with minimum clean stall speeds which qualifies the C182/172 and PA28 lines. But, they must restrict themselves to LSA rules when flying aircraft that meet the criteria. They can fly 4 seat airplanes but with only one passenger. Restricted to Day VFR with no medical (FAA or BMed). For night flying you need an FAA medical or Bmed. I'm not sure about IMC/IFR restrictions on the sport pilot. The airframe must be flown within the manufacturer's limitations and some (Vans RV2) exclude night/IMC flight.

 

[TimMcD]

I haven’t read all the new LSA rules yet since it’s over 700 pages. I own a 1975 Cessna 177RG. I’ll be interested to see if any flexibility has been created relative to installation of equipment, such as the Dynon autopilot, under a field approval outside the STC AML. I currently have the Trio autopilot and am installing the Skyview HDX, Comm, Transponder, ADS-B, etc. I am an IA , doing the work myself, and would prefer the Dynon autopilot functionality even if it’s just the flight director functions.

It is my understanding that Dynon has recently opened up full integration of the Trio AP to its interface. You may want to contact Trio to see how to get your AP configured to communicate to the Dynon.

 

[Rhino]

Dynon can open it up. But in order to use it in certified aircraft, the FAA still has to approve it.

 

[TimMcD]

Have you contacted Jeff Odum at thestcgroupllc.com? I just asked him about this and he says it is approved under their STC. It may require to work with them. Was your installation done with their STC?