With the January 31, 2008 deadline fast approaching, you should already have your N-numbers applied for and your machine ready for its inspection. If not, this is something you truly need to get done if:
- Your machine isn't already N-numbered.
- It has two seats.
- It has over 5 gallons of fuel capacity.
- Or it has an empty weight of over 254 lbs.
In other words, if you already have your machine N-numbered or if your machine fits the definition of an ultralight, then you are in great shape. Otherwise, the clock is ticking on your machine.
After the January 31, 2008 deadline, it is very unlikely that you will be able to fly your aircraft legally ever again. Even if you choose not to become a Sport Pilot yourself, it makes sense to N-number your aircraft to protect your monetary investment. After next January, your aircraft will be worth just a fraction of what it could be if you take the time to keep it legal.
Roy Beisswenger at Easy Flight is now a Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR). That means that he is able to do perform airworthiness inspections for both Experimental Light Sport Aircraft (E-LSA) and Special Light Sport AIrcraft (S-LSA). He is able to do airworthiness inspections for powered parachutes, airplanes, and weight shift control aircraft.
Not only can he do the final inspections for you, but he can help you all the way through the process. Hopefully some of the information and links below can help you out.
Getting Started.
You have come to a great place to get started looking at what you need to N-number your aircraft. One of the best resources you can find is the EAA's Transition Kit. It includes step-by-step instructions, blank forms, a data plate, required stickers for one low price learn more about it at: http://www.sportpilot.org/learn/lsa/transitioning_ul_aircraft.html.
Getting Registered.
This is the very first step in the process and certainly the one that takes the longest amount of time (2-6 weeks). This involves applying for an N-number with the FAA and showing them that you are in fact the owner of the aircraft.
FAA Information about N-Numbers
FAA Instructions on how to N-Number an Aircraft
Finding a DAR.
While you are waiting on your registration paperwork to come back, you should start looking for a DAR to inspect your machine. Unfornately, DARs are somewhat rare and are becoming very busy close to the deadline. You can find a local DAR by contacting your Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). If you don't know where your local local FSDO is, find out by visiting this link and searching on your state or region. Another place to find DARs is through your regional Manufacturing Inspection District Office (MIDO). You can your MIDO by visiting this FAA link and doing a similar search.
When you find a DAR, start talking about availability and and the time and location of the inspection. This is also a great time to ask questions you may have about the process.
Getting Your Aircraft Ready.
Your Aircraft is going to have to be in an airworthy condition to pass the inspection. But it is also going to have some special things done to it like placarding, marking.
Paperwork.
