The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) published a final rule on July 24, 2025, titled Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification. This document, found in the Federal Register as 2025-13972, amends regulations governing the manufacture, certification, operation, maintenance, and alteration of light-sport aircraft.
The amendments aim to enhance safety and performance while increasing privileges under sport pilot and light-sport aircraft rules. Key changes include expanding the suitability of these aircraft for flight training, limited aerial work, and personal travel. The rule also broadens the types of aircraft that sport pilots are authorized to operate.
Additionally, the rule modifies special purpose operations for restricted category aircraft. It adjusts the duration, eligible purposes, and operating limitations for experimental aircraft. New operating limitations now apply to experimental aircraft engaged in space support vehicle flights, codifying existing statutory language.
This final rule affects multiple sections of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), including Parts 21, 43, 45, 61, and 91. The amendments are identified by Docket No. FAA-2023-1377 and Amdt. Nos. 1-80, 21-109, 22-1, 36-55, 43-63, 45-32, 61-159, 65-66, 91-381, 119-22, and 147-10.
The rule becomes effective on October 22, 2025. However, specific amendatory instructions take effect later. Instructions 3, 8, 9, 13, 15, 17, 21, 23 through 26, 71, 72, 75, 76, and 80 become effective on July 24, 2026.
Summary written for CheckAero from the official document. It is not legal advice; read the full text before acting.