Anyone can read the EAA's synopsis of the Sport Pilot rule (19 pages instead of >400) at the following link: http://www.sportpilot.org/rule/sp_rule.pdf
(4) A maximum stalling speed or minimum steady flight speed without the use of lift-enhancing devices (VS1) of not more than 45 knots CAS at the aircraft's maximum certificated takeoff weight and most critical center of gravity. The new Light Sport category seems to be specifically for more complete kits (>51%) and completed aircraft. I'm not sure if the consensus standard for this has been publicly released yet, but that doesn't apply to us anyway. "It appears" that any plans-built experimental will need to be registered under the previously existing experimental category & rules, and that you would apply for the previously existing "experimental repairman's certificate" to allow the owner to perform maintenance & annual inspections. The new "light sport repairmans certificate" is specifically for the more complete kits & completed aircraft, which would not qualify for the previously existing experimental category. "It appears" that any plans-built experimental would be eligible to be flown by a lights sport pilot if it meets all the criteria for a light sport aircraft. I have yet to see anything from the FAA or EAA to even slightly touch on how that eligibility can be confirmed. I suspect that plan-builders will be at the end of the list, as far as priorities go. Regards, RonB
