What is the difference between an ultralight and a light sport aircraft?
The differences between an ultralight aircraft and a light sport aircraft (LSA) are subtle but they are clearly defined by the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). In summary, an ultralight is an aircraft that weighs no more than 254 pounds, can carry only one person, and can hold no more than 5 gallons of fuel. An LSA is one that can carry no more than 2 people, and whose weight, including the occupants, can not exceed 1350 pounds. To fly an ultralight you do not need a license, but to fly an LSA you must have a Sport Pilot certificate.