Evaluating Flight Instructor Perceptions of Light Sport Aircraft

The Federal Aviation Administration has forecasted tremendous growth in general aviation over the next 20 years, mostly due to large increases in the population of sport pilots. These future pilots will need to be taught by instructors who have the experience, interest, and appropriate attitudes to accommodate successful growth in light sport aviation. Flight instructors without a sport pilot rating are authorized to instruct in light sport aircraft but have little or no experience requirements with such aircraft before teaching. The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions current instructors held about light sport aircraft. This was accomplished by surveying two different samples of certified flight instructors: a group of randomly selected flight instructors from the FAA national airmen atabase, and a sample of flight instructors registered with the National Association of Flight Instructors. Instructor perceptions about light sport aircraft are analyzed using statistical methods. Comments indicate a need for additional effort to ensure the delivery of safe, efficient, quality training in light sport aviation.