Skip to content
Vincony — fast, managed web hosting for your next site
The Pilots Desk
US-FAA14 CFR 61.316

What are the performance limits and design requirements for the aircraft that a sport pilot may operate?

Read the official rule

This regulation defines what aircraft a sport pilot can fly. Generally, sport pilots are limited to small, simple aircraft with these characteristics:

  • Maximum stall speed of 45 knots (59 knots for airplanes)
  • Two seats maximum (four for airplanes)
  • Non-pressurized cabin
  • Fixed landing gear and fixed or ground-adjustable propeller (for powered aircraft)
  • Design that maintains directional control if power is partially lost

Additional restrictions apply to specific aircraft types: gyroplanes must have two-blade teetering rotors, helicopters need simplified flight controls certification, and gliders can have fixed or retractable gear.

However, sport pilots can fly aircraft with retractable gear or manual controllable-pitch propellers if they receive additional training and a logbook endorsement as specified in §61.331. This allows sport pilots to gradually expand their capabilities beyond the basic limitations while maintaining appropriate safety standards for their certificate level.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*

This is an original plain-English explanation for training and reference, not legal advice and not for navigation. Always rely on the current official rule linked above. Last reviewed June 20, 2026.