The story of the Carrier Petition goes on. As many of you know, USUA member Dick Carrier, along with USUA, NAPPF and ASC, petitioned FAA to create a safety study that would identify and allow additional safety items to be listed in Advisory Circular 103-7. By detailing the safety items identified by this survey, and listing them in an Advisory Circular, additional weight (for those items) could be allowed on a Part 103 legal ultralight without having to change or even touch Part 103. And, as you may also know, that petition was denied earlier this year.

In March of 2006, shortly after the petition's denial, Mr. Carrier and USUA Executive Vice President Dale Hooper met via teleconference with FAA officials concerning that action. FAA provided additional clarification on the reasoning behind the denial, and what possible action could be accomplished to rectify the situation. According to FAA, the idea of and premise behind the Safety Study was not denied. The denial pertained only to the fact that Part 103 ultralights (which would require an exemption) were to be used. FAA reported that they where actually in favor of the study, and it's benefits to ultralight aviation. However, the study could not include exempted ultralights. Since there is now a category of aircraft that would not require exemptions (Light Sport), FAA suggested that USUA investigate and proceed with efforts directed toward this study; to which USUA agreed.

Since that time, Carrier, Hooper and USUA Board member Skip Little have met personally with FAA regarding the matter. At Sun N Fun airshow, Hooper took FAA Manager of General Aviation Pete Dula, on an informal tour of the ultralight exhibit area. Legal ultralights and Experimental Light Sport Aircraft (Fat Ultralights) that were possible examples of aircraft that could effectively participate in such a survey were viewed and discussed.

It is important to note however, that this project is in the investigational stage of development. USUA is committed to the preservation of Part 103 and the freedoms it provides. Any effort that would jeopardize the rule in any way would be unacceptable. While USUA is exploring the possibilities of creating this safety study this will be the benchmark in which all decisions and actions will be weighed.

It is hoped that within the next few months, enough information can be ascertained to decide on the course to take. As developments arise, USUA will be reporting on, and soliciting member comments about, possible actions and specifics related to creating a safer ultralight vehicle.