Aviation groups petition for consideration of sport training for higher certificates
February 23, 2011, 03:27 pm
Aviation interest groups are petitioning the Federal Aviation Administration to allow training hours completed while obtaining a sports pilot license to count towards the acquisition of higher certificates, according to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.
The group, along with the Experimental Aircraft Association, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association and the National Association of Flight Instructors, has asked that the FAA count the training towards obtaining full private pilot or recreational licenses.
One aspect of the groups' argument is that the experience, even from a sports license with fewer requirements, enhances a training pilot's knowledge and prepares them for advanced licenses. The rule resets "the clock on aeronautical experience as if that sport pilot was an initial student with no previous experience," the groups said.
The concept behind the rule is that the FAA would not allow a sports pilot to train an applicant for their private pilot's license due to safety concerns. However, the groups argue that modifying the rule will not hurt safety, but will instead enhance it by encouraging pilots to apply for more advanced licenses, acquiring more flying knowledge along the way.
Though this rule may not be detrimental to safety, the numerous other hazards pilots face should be enough to urge them to consider pilot insurance, should something happen to them while in flight.
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