Sport Pilot, Sport Pilot Training

“Sport Pilot" used to mean any pilot who flew any type of aircraft for sport, either with or without training or license. But the term was recently redefined to be applied to the new light sport airman's certificate that requires training and certain amount of solo flying time.

Getting a Sport Pilot License

Light sport aircrafts include parachutes for parasailing, trikes and hang gliders – in other words, aircraft that rely on their human sport pilot's physical power, athletic ability and expertise rather than a mechanical engine that the aircraft may or may not have. They are also easy to transport by car or truck.

Those who want to become sport pilots usually find that flying light sport aircraft is safe and affordable, and the training is fast and simple. You will be taught the techniques and dynamics of being airborne – such as takeoff, turning and landing – and then you can be flying solo and progress to longer and higher flights in just a few days. There are a lot of sport pilot training organizations around the globe to assist you and help you find like-minded people.

Even though there is a relatively low risk involved with flying most light sport aircraft, safety is of critical importance to a sport pilot. A good training program will instill in you the habit of properly preparing and exercising good judgment, especially in terms of particular weather conditions.

The most important decision you will start with is what type of flying suits your lifestyle and what type of aircraft will do it for you. The next thing will be finding a certified training program to meet your needs.

The basic requirements for a pilot license are as follows:

• Medical Certificate – you must pass the basic medical exam that all applicants are required to undergo
• Age – you must be at least 16 years old to fly an airplane solo with a student pilot certificate, and 17 years old to get a private pilot license
• Language – you have to be able to speak, read and understand English
• Time – a private license requires a minimum of 40 hours of total flight time

Michelin Pilot Sport Cup

Developed for drivers who take part in autocross and track events, the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup is a DOT legal street competition radial designed to add to driving excitement by providing class winning handling and traction.