Sport Pilot License

Sport Pilot Certificate

When selecting your flight training, one of the most important considerations is your ultimate end goal. If you’re pursuing a career in aviation you’ll be better off pursuing a private pilot license instead of a sport pilot one. But if you simply want to fly light sport aircraft then a sport pilot certificate is exactly what you need.

Below are some details about Sport Pilot flight training, as well as some of the privileges and limitations that come with it. When you’re planning to start your sport pilot license you’ll need to take the FAA written exam.

Enrollment Update

At this time we aren’t enrolling students for our Sport Pilot Course. If you are interested in becoming a commercial pilot check out our Zero Time to Airline® program. This program is designed to take you from zero flight time to an airline pilot in as little as 2 years!

Sport Pilot License

The Sport Pilot Program Includes:

20 hrs. – Total Flight Time
15 hrs. – Dual Flight Training
5 hrs. – Solo Flight
22.5 hrs. – Knowledge (Ground) Training
3 hrs. – Mock Oral Practical Test Prep
Jeppesen Pilot Training System
Pilot Syllabus
FAR/AIM Manual
E6B Flight Computer
Navigation Plotter
Pilot Logbook
Fuel Tester
Flight Bag
Aviation Headset

Privileges & Limitations:

Operate as pilot in command of a light sport qualified aircraft
Carry a passenger and share expenses (fuel, oil, airport expenses, and aircraft rental)
Fly during daytime using visual flight rules (VFR). Three statute miles visibility and visual contact with the ground are required
Fly in Class E and G airspace. Flying in Class B, C, or D airspace requires an endorsement from an instructor (view guide to airspace classes).
Sport pilots may fly production (standard airworthiness certificate) and experimental amateur-built aircraft that meet the FAA’s definition of a light sport aircraft
Prohibited from flying in Class A airspace or in instrument conditions
May not fly above 10,000 ft. or at night
May not carry a passenger or property for hire or another form of compensation
May not carry more than one passenger
May not fly faster than 120 knots
May generally fly only within the United States
Prohibited from flying in furtherance of a business

Sport Pilot Frequently Asked Questions

Can you fly anywhere with a sport pilot license?

Sport pilots are generally limited to visual conditions and inside US airspace.

Can you fly at night with a sport pilot’s license?

No, Sport pilots are restricted to daytime flight only.

What is the difference between a sport license and a private pilot license?

Sport Pilot is a certificate that allows you to fly a Light-Sport Aircraft with a number of limitations (can’t fly at night, only 1 passenger, only fly light sport aircraft). It’s the only certificate in the airplane category that only requires a driver’s license, not a medical.

A private pilot on the other hand requires at least a 3rd class medical and allows you to fly larger airplanes with more than one passenger. Neither license allows you to fly for commercial purposes.

Take a look at our article on types of pilot licenses to learn more.

Can a sport pilot carry passengers?

A sport pilot may only carry one passenger. They may share the expenses of the flight including fuel, aircraft rental fees, oil, and airport expenses. The sport pilot must pay at least half of all expenses.