What the Heck is an E-LSA?

By Ed Downs

The subject of aircraft certification, be it standard, special or experimental can make even the most geeky tax lawyer think they have fallen down the rabbit hole, especially when talking about Experimental aircraft.  So let’s keep this month’s column about the real world of buying, selling and using an E-LSA airplane.  The fact is, one is very likely to come across a “for sale” ad featuring an E-LSA that can look inviting.  The price may be quite attractive, but just what the heck is an E-LSA?

First, let’s take a general look at any airplane that is certified as an “Experimental” airplane.  Actually, there is no such thing as simply an “Experimental” airplane, even if the word “Experimental” is clearly written on the side of the plane.  Experimental certification always carries a second word (or two) which describes what sub-part of Experimental we are talking about, and there are numerous sub-parts.  For example one might see a  nifty little RV-12 (it meets the FAA definition of an LSA) from Van’s Aircraft sitting on the ramp with the word “Experimental” prominently displayed.  This RV-12 may have been sold as a kit that meets the new FAA “51% rule” and was certified as Experimental-Amateur Built.  This means the builder of the plane can perform all of his/her own maintenance, make changes to the design (including engine changes) conduct the annual condition inspection and pretty much fly when and where he/she wants.  Sitting next to that RV-12 might be a weird looking war bird from some country whose name you cannot pronounce, made by a manufacturer best known for cranking out refrigerators that do not work.  Our “war bird” will also have the word “Experimental” clearly displayed, but is certified as Experimental-Exhibition.  This critter may have significant maintenance issues and require each and every flight to be approved by the FAA.  Get the point?