FAA Now Taking Applications

The FAA has published application forms for those who wish to become Sport Pilot Examiners. Examiners are those individuals who are designated by FAA to administer Sport Pilot practical (oral and flight) tests and other associated privileges.

According to Martin Weaver a manager in the Light Sport Aviation Branch at the FAA, "We are now ready to turn the Sport Pilot Examiner application process on. "The new Light-Sport Standardization Board - Designated Pilot Examiner Candidate Application, FAA Form 8710-12, is now on the Light Sport Aviation Branch (AFS-610) web site."

The FAA's stated goal is to have the first Light Sport Standardization Board during the first week of December if the new Light Sport Standardization Charter is signed by the Director of Flight Standards (AFS-1) before December. FAA is also planning on conducting the first Sport Pilot Examiner Initial Course in January 2005.

Weaver also reports that, "The Sport Pilot Examiner Handbook, FAA Order 8710.7, will be available on the AFS-610 web site within a week. This order has been signed by AFS-1 on October 18th. This establishes the Sport Pilot Examiner program and gives guidance to Aviation Safety Inspectors and Sport Pilot Examiners in conducting practical tests at the sport pilot level."

FMI: www.afs600.faa.gov