Beginning October 19th, 2004, FAA began accepting applications from the Ultralight and Light Sport Community for Designated Pilot and Instructor Examiner positions. These individuals, when chosen, will be tasked with providing the practical test examinations for prospective Sport Pilots, and Sport Pilot instructors- a very important, and essential role within the Sport Pilot system. The eleven page application, (including four pages of instructions), solicits information concerning the applicant's overall flight experience (Ultralight and any General Aviation experience held), training experience as a BFI/AFI with an FAA recognized Ultralight Training organization (such as USUA), and FAA ratings held by the applicant.

The application (which was released almost two weeks early, according to a recently updated FAA Sport Pilot timeline), has been greatly anticipated by many USUA instructors, and has been met with a highly favorable response from the ultralight community. While Ultralight instructors are excited about the prospect of becoming a DPE, existing General Aviation DPEs are receiving this new post rather coolly. "Instructors and Examiners of GA aircraft have long felt no great kinship with the smaller, less complicated airplanes we have been intimate with over the years" comments USUA EVP Dale Hooper. He went on to say "In fact, when several existing DPEs around the country were polled regarding their willingness to provide the services required to create Sport Pilots, a reluctance was evident. This could, however, lead to a positive situation for our instructors- especially the existing AFIs. And, since Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft rules include such exotic (to General Aviation pilots) looking (and flying) aircraft such as Trikes and Powered Parachutes, many GA Instructors and Examiners are tending to shy away from them especially."

Discussions with FAA have given USUA some insight into the DPE selection process, and the role of the application in this procedure. Each answer provided by the DPE candidate on the application will be afforded a point value. Applicants with the greatest number of points will be selected into the initial cadre of DPEs. This unique group will be required to provide all the necessary elements of pilot and/or instructor evaluation. This being the case, along with the appropriate flight and training experience as an Ultralight examiner (AFI), there will be a need for the candidate to possess a working knowledge of FAA procedures as well. This means that an AFI who is also a CFI will accumulate more points, and therefore will have the best chance of obtaining a spot in, at least, the first batch of DPEs. Also, a favorable recommendation from the FAA recognized training organization, under which the candidate has been operating as an AFI will award additional value (added points) to the application. USUA will be pleased to offer recommendations for qualified instructors. There will be no charge for this service, and all who feel qualified are encouraged to apply.

USUA instructors requesting a recommendation from USUA to become Sport Pilot DPEs should:

Copies of the completed application with recommendation requests can be mailed to USUA at:

If you wish to send your application and request electronically to USUA, you may scan the entire completed application, and e-mail it to us at usua@usua.org.

After receiving the copy of the completed DPE application, the request will be sent to the USUA Safety And Training Committee for recommendation. Recommendations will be mailed to the applicant's address via USPS 1st Class mail at no charge. If an expedited reply is required, the applicant must include appropriate return-mail postage payment.

"Applicants can be assured that USUA will treat all requests for recommendations equally, and that a reply will be returned quickly. We are pleased to be able to provide this service at no charge to the exceptional individuals who have supported – and continue to support – USUA throughout the years, and who have maintained the high level of integrity and safety that has set USUA apart from all others" said Hooper.

While attending meetings with FAA this past summer, USUA was actively involved in discussions regarding the Light Sport Aircraft Repairman certificate; in particular, the criteria for instructors of the Repairman courses. Early on, it was evident that FAA was considering overlooking the vast arena of knowledge represented by the Ultralight industry (specifically manufacturers and their representatives) when establishing instructor criteria, and possibly only recognizing existing AP (airframe and powerplant) certificate holders for these positions. USUA began lobbying for changes to this proposed arrangement, and was challenged to provide an acceptable description of a manufacturer's representative, and provide evidence of how those individuals could (and should) be allowed to hold the position of Repairman instructor. Also in debate, was an appropriate level of experience for the different levels of Repairman instructor; for both inspection and maintenance ratings.

USUA, knowing that the majority of aircraft that soon would be known as Light Sport were conceived, developed, and maintained for over twenty years, as Ultralights, felt that it could not stand by and let the industry be ignored. Manufacturers, with little or no help from FAA- and without benefit from any government guidelines- have been successfully and safely producing and maintaining these aircraft, and need to be involved in the inspection and maintenance programs.

Within 24 hours of being tasked with these issues, USUA staff, under the guidance and direction of USUA President Reggie DeLoach, submitted a document to FAA detailing these proposals. The successful result of these efforts can be found in the language of FAA Order 8000-84; Procedures to Accept Industry-Developed Training for Light-Sport Repairmen.

"Ultralighters know these lighter, less complex aircraft better than anyone" said DeLoach. "It would have been a travesty to not tap into the vast knowledge that our industry has accumulated over the years." "It was a pleasure to be able to help fellow Ultralighters once again. It's what we do" added USUA EVP Dale Hooper.

USUA members wishing to learn more about the LSA Repairman certificate with Inspection and Maintenance ratings can read more about it on the FAA AFS 610 (Light Sport Aircraft Branch) website.

USUA AND SWEENEYCORP OFFER SPORT PILOT GROUND INSTRUCTION - FROM THE CONVENIENCE OF YOUR HOME

As USUA members who choose to participate in the Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft program begin searching for training programs, there are at least two problems that are sure to come up: TIME & EXPENSE.

USUA, in partnership with Sweeneycorp, are announcing the first Internet Based Sport Pilot Ground School, which will help alleviate some of these worries.

This Sport Pilot Ground School over the Internet is for pilots who want to review topics required for the Sport Pilot Knowledge Test (written test) with an instructor, without leaving home. Topics will be presented in a limited attendee conference call and visual (PowerPoint) material delivered over the Internet. Maintaining a small class size will allow questions to be answered in realtime as the material is presented. The classes can be taken anywhere there is access to both a phone line and an Internet connection.

Topics are broken down by subject matter, into individual modules. During each module, sample test questions are available and discussed appropriate to each topic, offering familiarity with the FAA written testing procedures. Once a module is taken, the student can attend that module again at no charge, space available. Modules are also available outlining the transition from Ultralight Pilot to Sport Pilot and for Private Pilots exercising Sport Pilot Privileges. The transition of an ultralight vehicle to Light Sport Aircraft is also covered These introductory modules are also of value to BFI/AFIs who are planning to instruct as Light Sport Instructors, as well as CFIs who plan to instruct in Light Sport Aircraft.

This unique format, allows you to make the most of the skills and knowledge you have already acquired and focus in on the areas that need review.

This innovative approach to aviation education was conceived and is being presented by USUA Director Jim Sweeney. Sweeney has represented USUA in FAA Sport Pilot/Light Sport Aircraft meetings as well as ASTM standards meetings since the concept of the rule was presented in 2002, when the Sport Pilot Notice Of Proposed Rule Making was announced. He has continued his committment to the Ultralight/Light Sport Aviation community by providing seminars and classes nationwide, and is also Chief Seminar Presenter for all USUA BFI Clinics and AFI Seminars. Additionally, Jim continues to fill an active roll as Private Pilot and Powered Parachute AFI, and even finds time to tow Gliders whenever possible. Listeners to Ultraflight Radio will also recognize him as a regular voice on that program, sharing his vast knowledge, and insider perspectives as only he can.

These courses are being offered at a cost of $27 per module, with a one-time registration fee of $10. As a result of a special arrangement with Sweeneycorp, USUA members will be able to save the $10 registration fee! USUA is pleased to offer this savings as an additional member benefit.

USUA will hold its 2005 Annual Member Meeting February 26th, in Springfield, Illinois, at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The mid-winter event will be held in conjunction with the 25th Annual Illinois Ultralight Advisory Council (IUAC) Ultralight/Lightplane Safety Seminar. USUA is proud to be part, once again, of this beneficial and long-standing event and we invite our members to share the experience. The overwhelming success of last years Annual Meeting at this location has prompted USUA to accept the kind invitation of the Illinois Ultralight Advisory Council again this year. Between USUA business meetings that are also being held during that weekend, the USUA Board of Directors, Staff and Regional Representatives will be on hand to greet current, and prospective members visiting the USUA exhibit.

The Meeting and Seminar will be held in the Illinois Building & Auditorium on the Illinois State Fairgrounds. This building houses a 400-seat theater and a 12,270 sq. ft. auditorium. Aircraft and vendor displays will all be under the same roof. These Manufacturers, dealers, and vendors will exhibit during the weekend, and USUA invites its members to take advantage of this opportunity to shop in plenty of time for the 2005 flying season. Also scheduled for display, is at least one of the 8th US National Microlight Championship aircraft, providing all with an opportunity to see up close a National AND World class competition ultralight.

Registration for both events will begin at 8:00AM at the fairgrounds. A full day of activities is planned, culminating with the USUA Member Meeting and Awards Ceremony.

Following the Annual Member Meeting, the day will conclude with the presentation of the USUA Ultralight Awards Ceremony. This occasion honors outstanding individuals who have been involved in various facets of the ultralight industry and community. The most prestigious of these awards is the Moody Award -- named for John Moody, who many consider to be the father of American ultralighting.

The Illinois Ultralight/Light Plane Safety Seminar is the oldest and largest gathering of its type. Established in the 80's to address safety concerns with the then newly emerged sport of ultralighting, the IUAC advises the FAA and the Illinois Department of Transportation on ultralight issues, in addition to organizing the annual safety seminar.

Since moving to the Illinois Building on the Springfield, Illinois Fairgrounds, the Safety Seminar has been able to offer the 12,000+ square foot convention area to organizations in the ultralight industry to display everything from organizational literature to complete aircraft including -- fixed wing, trikes, powered parachutes, rotorcraft, and powered paragliders. As a service to the industry, there is no charge for those organizations that wish to display.

USUA will be holding a BFI Clinic / AFI Seminar on Sunday February 27, 2005, the day following the Annual Meeting and Safety Seminar. The seminar is scheduled to be held at the Illinois State Aviation offices, just minutes from the fairground.

Registration begins at 8AM, with the Clinic starting at 8:15AM, and ending around 5:30PM. AFI Seminar attendees must attend the BFI Clinic. The BFI Clinic fee is $50.00.

Seminar presenter, Jim Sweeney will be conducting the clinic. It will cover topics ranging from training techniques to program administration to Sport Pilot conversion. Fixed Wing, Trike, and Powered Parachute BFIs and AFI's from any FAA recognized ultralight training program are welcome, as well as any other interested individuals.

Pre-register NOW by emailing your NAME, ADDRESS, AFFILIATION & MEMBER NUMBER (USUA, USHGA, EAA, ASC, etc.) to: usua@usua.org

Featuring the now familiar "Wings & Ring" logo, a bold "USUA" now adorns the masthead; welcoming all that enter. This new, highly visible logo will soon find it's way on to USUA signature apparel, as well as other identity items.

But the new logo is not all that has been added. In keeping with USUA's new aggressive approach to the Microlight Competition environment, USUA member Janine Hempy has been working with Webmaster Bob Comperini on a new, and more informative Competition section. You will now not only be able to get acquainted with the many awards and programs USUA offers, but up-to-date postings of National Points Winners, as well as the current USUA National Microlight Champions can be viewed. Are you new to Ultralight/Microlight competition? Would you like to view the actual task and briefing sheets used by pilots in the 8th US National Microlight Championships? Are you completely confused, and don't know what any of this means? Then we invite you to visit the new Competition Page on the USUA website!

The USUA Awards Committee is proud to announce its service awards for 2004. Individuals and organizations, which have been awarded these prestigious honors, are examples of outstanding service and dedication to the ultralight and light sport aviation community. Below is a brief description about each recipient. Plan to come to USUA's Annual Meeting in Springfield, Illinois, on Saturday, February 26, 2005. You will hear more about these fine individuals and organizations at the USUA Awards Ceremony.

Meritorious Service Award: Tony Anderson (USUA AFI #A31000)

USUA recognizes Tony's continuing efforts to introduce people to the sport of ultralighting. In his area, Tony has also worked with interested students and ultralight pilots who want to transition to the new FAA Sport Pilot certification. During his many years of experience as a USUA ultralight flight instructor and his role as an FAA Safety Counselor, he has played a significant role in training and air safety.

Ultralight Industry Award: Powrachute Corporation

Exemplifying the qualifications for this award - ". . . exceptional level of service to the ultralight community, as well as the local community . . ." - USUA is honored to present this award for the second consecutive year to Powrachute. They provide a sturdy and safe product to many who want to enjoy low and slow flight. Every year, in a field outside Columbus, KS, they host the exciting, family-oriented event known as the Powrachute Extravaganza.

Club of The Year: USUA Club #201 - The Millennium Flyers

This active USUA Club has promoted our sport and served the local community in and around Chambersburg, PA. For the past 5 years, the club hosts several fundraising events that benefit the Mercy Medical/Angel Flight folks.

Volunteer of The Year: Mike Plotnick (USUA #A79824)

Mike has been a regular volunteer at the USUA tent at Sun ‘n Fun for the past couple of years. This year, in his role as Event Coordinator, his efforts helped to make the planning and work for that annual event run smoothly.

Communication Award: Ultraflight Radio

As leaders in the area of audio communications about our sport, Ultraflight Radio - and particularly, hosts Michael Purdy and Roy Beisswenger (USUA AFI #A27073) - has become one of the best sources for up-to-date information. Once a week, timely interviews with key individuals, provide an important channel for information to the ultralight/light sport community.

And as reported last month, USUA is proud to announce that the winner of the 2004 Moody Award, is Phil Lockwood. (read the announcement here)

The National Aeronautic Association has announced that David Ivey, a 30-year veteran of trade association management, has taken over as its new president and CEO.

"Don Koranda has done an outstanding job leading NAA," Ivey said, "and I'm looking forward to continuing his record of success. NAA has a uniquely rich history and I feel honored to participate in its promising future."

For more than 25 years Ivey served as president of the International Parking Institute (IPI), an association that provides technical and educational services to the transportation and parking industries. During that time, IPI posted membership growth of more than 1000 percent and increased its annual income by more than $2.5 million. IPI also developed an industry-wide professional certification program, a monthly magazine, and other services under Ivey's watch.

Prior to his service with IPI, Ivey also worked as director of government affairs for the National Parking Association. He served as press secretary for Bill Clinton's Arkansas congressional campaign in 1974, and as officer in the U.S. Air Force.

NAA is a non-profit, membership organization devoted to fostering opportunities in aviation activities and to promoting public understanding of the importance of aviation and space flight to the United States. NAA, the oldest national aviation organization in the country, will celebrate its centennial in 2005.

NAA is the national Aero Club of the US, and it's affiliate Air Sports members (of which USUA represents Ultralights and Microlights) represent the US to the international Federation Aeronautique International.