MAKE CHAPTER 288 YOUR AVIATION HOME! E-AB, TYPE CERTIFIED, VINTAGE, WARBIRD, ETC.
EAA Chapter 288 gathering will be held on Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 PM in the chapter hangar
Note our April meeting will be the 4th Thursday of the month since Sun N Fun was last week (our normal meeting time.)
This month’s speaker is Josh M, who will be presenting highlights of his class on “Cognitive Resilience Protocols - Aviation Performance & Safety”
SUN n FUN 2026 over and the countdown to snf 2027 is on
00
DaysDays
00
HrsHours
00
MinsMinutes
00
SecsSeconds
WELCOME TO the EAA288 website -- NO Sign-in is required
God Bless the usA
SOMe-NOT ALL-UPDATES FOR APRIL, CLICK below & go direct
THIS WEBSITE WAS LAST UPDATED ON APRIL 21 @ 1845
NOTE: We're only a short time away from our April Gathering (Thursday, April 23) where we will have a guest speaker presenting: NeuroFlight: Cognitive Resilience Protocols – Aviation Performance & Safety. We hope to see you there.
********************************************************
WEBSITE QUESTIONS/SUGGESTIONS
Contact Rick Weiss, VP & Webmaster @ eaa288webmaster@gmail.com
********************************************************
CHAPTER 288 LEADERSHIP TEAM
Welcome aboard to Ray Jenkins, our new EAA288 Secretary
President: Steve Bryk
Vice President: Scott Main
VP & Webmaster: Rick Weiss
Secretary: Ray Jenkins
Treasure: TJ Shembecker
Young Eagles: Jim Clark
Daytona.young.eagles@gmail.com
Scholarships: Eileen Weigram
IMC Program: VACANT
VMC Program: VACANT
EAA288 BOARD of DIRECTORS
Keith Phillips
Rick Weiss
Dave Gitelman
Mike Elstien
#############################################
PLEASE NOTE:
THERE IS NO NEED TO SIGN INTO THIS WEBSITE, YOU'RE ALREADY IN IT! DON'T BOTHER USING THE HEAD FIGURE IN THE UPPER RIGHT CORNER AT THE TOP THE PAGES - IT'S A USELESS ARTIFACT OF THE SYSTEM - READ ON AND ENJOY!
ALSO
DUE TO WEBSITE SPACE LIMITATIONS, THESE FRONT PAGE SECTIONS ARE FREQUENTLY USED TO PUBLISH ITEMS OF INTEREST.
****************************************************************
NEW AND EXCITING
JOIN EAA 288 IN MOVING FORWARD IN THE ELECTRONIC INFORMATION WORLD
PLEASE SIGN UP FOR OUR NEW EMAIL SERVICE AND RECEIVE IMMEDIATE NOTIFICATION OF HAPPENINGS WITHIN EAA288.
CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW AND FILL OUT THIS SIMPLE FORM
https://eaa288.us13.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=c118a175c2b69b8427ba813ab&id=4521f9814b
Other sources that share EAA288 information:
Our Facebook group can be found at EAA Chapter 288 Daytona Beach &
Instagram group page: @eaa.288
*****************************************************************
OF IMPORTANCE TO SOME PIPER AIRCRAFT OWNERS & PILOTS
Piper Aircraft - PA-28, PA-32, PA-38-112 Diode Cooler Assembly
Notice Number: NOTC4938
On July 23, 2020, a 1981 PA-28RT-201T Arrow IV experienced an in-flight fire near Basel-Mulhouse Airport, France. During cruise, the ammeter indicated an abnormally high alternator output of 70 amps—well above the typical 20–30-amp range—suggesting an electrical overload condition. The pilot and passengers detected an electrical odor, and the pilot declared an emergency. After landing, smoke and flames entered the cabin from the luggage compartment. The event was traced to an electrical failure within the Diode Cooler Assembly. The investigation also noted that the pilot did not follow the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) procedures for electrical overloads or suspected in-flight fires, which normally call for reducing electrical load, isolating the faulty system, and preparing to use the onboard fire extinguisher. As a general safety reminder, pilots are encouraged to review AFM emergency procedures related to electrical malfunctions and in-flight fire response.
Piper Aircraft, Inc. subsequently issued Service Bulletin (SB) 1428, Periodic Inspection of Diode Cooler Assembly, applicable to various PA-28, PA-32, and the PA-38-112 models equipped with this component. The SB calls for a detailed inspection of the diode cooler assembly and its installation. Mechanics performing this inspection would typically look for signs of heat distress, loose or damaged wiring, improper mounting, degraded insulation, and any evidence of arcing or component deterioration that could lead to electrical failure.
This notice highlights the importance of complying with SB 1428 and encourages pilots to remain familiar with AFM procedures for handling electrical anomalies and potential in-flight fire indications.
https://s3.amazonaws.com/pipercrm/Solution/21128/SB_1428.pdf
If you have any questions, please contact:
Bryan Long
Electrical Systems Aerospace Engineer SME – AIR 756
Compliance & Airworthiness Division
Aircraft Certification Service (AIR), AVS/FAA
Mailing Address: 1701 Columbia Ave, College Park, GA 30337
Email Address: Bryan.Long@faa.gov
Office Phone: (404) 474-5578
***********************************************************************
OF PILOT & BUILDER IMPORTANCE to ALL RV AIRCRAFT
Van's recommends a specific type of emergency egress hammer to break the canopy in the event of an emergency!
Emergency Egress Hammer
Because preparation is an important part of safety, Van’s Aircraft is recommending all RVs carry an Emergency Egress Hammer. (One is available on the Van’s webstore.) It’s important to note that egress hammers designed for automobiles may not be compatible with the aircraft use, since spring-loaded plungers designed to break glass are not effective on the plexiglass used in aircraft windows and canopies. The proper tool will have a hammer heavy enough to break through plexiglass to aid emergency egress. Please read the entire Service Bulletin 00079 for more detail.
Here's the link to SB-00079:
https://www.vansaircraft.com/service-information-and-revisions/sb-00079/
*****************************************************************
OF PILOT & BUILDER IMPORTANCE TO THE RV-14's
As of March 20 a new SERVICE BULLETIN, SB-00128, has been established by Van's that addresses a serious canopy issue for all RV-14's!
Canopy Latch Pin Improvements
The side canopy retention pins have been observed to lift partially out of their sockets during aggressive aerobatic maneuvers and overspeed conditions. To increase retention margins during these conditions, we are lengthening the side and rear canopy pins. This service bulletin affects RV-14 and RV-14A models whose finish kits were shipped before 3/20/26. Changes include side canopy pins lengthened to increase retention margins during aggressive aerobatic maneuvers and overspeed conditions, and the rear canopy‑latch pin engagement depth increased. A complete retrofit kit can be found on the Van's store. Here's a quick link to the SB!
https://www.vansaircraft.com/service-information-and-revisions/sb-00128/
********************************************************************
THE EAA288 YOUNG EAGLES PROGRAM
PARENTS: THESE ARE FREE EVENTS
If you are an EAA288 Pilot or you are parent who wishes to introduce their children to the wonderful and exciting world of aviation by giving them the opportunity to experience flying, please follow these simple steps:
SCROLL TO THE TOP OF THIS PAGE:
CLICK ON: CHAPTER ACTIVITIES
THEN CLICK ON: YOUNG EAGLES PROGRAM
NOTE: By following these simple steps you will also be able to view an actual EAA288 Young Eagle event on You Tube.
Click Here to view a video produced by Volusia County Schools for their private organization Young Eagles Rally.
****************************************************
CHAPTER 288 NOW HAS OVER 310 MEMBERS
IT IS THE LARGEST EAA CHAPTER AND WE'RE STILL GROWING!
YOU ARE INVITED TO BECOME A MEMBER OF EAA 288
We look forward to meeting and welcoming you to our Chapter!!
Chapter 288 works to continue the spirit of general aviation in the Daytona Beach area. We host several events throughout the year for our members which feature prominent aviators and aviation technology.
Chapter 288 members also volunteer at aviation related functions throughout the community to teach people about general aviation. Volunteering at local airshows and hosting Young Eagles events are some of the ways that EAA 288 members participate in the community. Please scroll down to the blue box at the end of this section and click on it to join our Chapter.
Chapter 288's members are also very involved with the EAA on a national level. The chapter also has a good turnout at the EAA's annual 'AirVenture' in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
********************************************************************
FYI: EAA288 ALSO HAS OUTSTANDING SIMULATORS AVAILABLE
Great news—the Simulator’s have received their ‘recertification papers’ from VirtualFly (manufacturer) via the FAA.
Both officially FAA Certificated through 2031!!
Waahoo! 🙌😃
The official paperwork is posted in sim room!!
Usage is for Chapter 288 members in good standing only. The address of the sim room location is Doris Kennedy's hangar at 224 Cessna Blvd (accessible by outside coded door, receive code from instructor)
Please remember when scheduling the sim session for the first time as a single student, i.e. without an approved instructor, member must be checked out on sim usage individually by either sim director Jack Morey (preferred) @ (386)235-5797 email john727@earthlink.net or another instructor listed on the sim page.
Please make sure this person is contacted directly to schedule. This is to insure correct usage procedures are followed.
Finally, this is a friendly REMINDER for ALL users that schedule with an instructor or self, to please bring sufficient cash or a check for the sim usage rate of $40/hour.
Please click on the Flight Simulator, Chapter Activities Tab at the top of this page. Thank you.
Sim Rates and Chapter Dues
SIM RATES:
Those who donated to the acquisition of the sims will pay $10 per hour. All others will need to pay $40 per hour.
CHAPTER DUES
The Chapter dues are $50 per year.
Reminder: You must be a member in good standing of EAA National to be a Chapter 288 member.
$$$$ REMEMBER $$$$
ALL donations & contributions above dues & sim usage fees are tax deductible as a charity (501.3c corporation)
************************************************************
TO JOIN OUR EAA CHAPTER
OR
PAY DUES or MAKE a DONATION
Click the Blue Button Below
EAA288 4th annual TAXI-IN PICTURES - MARCH 2026
AOPA PRESENTS DRAFT GOVERNANCE CHANGES TO MEMBERS
April 10, 2026
Potential changes to trustee nominations, terms, qualifications
AOPA presented a set of bylaw changes to members, seeking feedback on a set of significant potential revisions, including changes to the process for nominating members to the Board of Trustees, setting term limits, and establishing required trustee qualifications to serve on the Board.
The board and senior staff based these governance changes, in part, on member requests, and posted the current and potential bylaws online, along with explanatory notes and a feedback form.
AOPA Trustee Jim Hauslein announced the broad strokes of the pending governance update in March, along with his intent to step down from the board in May. Hauslein wrote an open letter posted immediately after the board elected longtime AOPA Trustee Luke Wippler to serve as its new chairman: "As you know, AOPA has a long history of protecting GA and providing our members with essential benefits, such as Pilot Protection Services and the You Can Fly program. To safeguard this legacy, the board must continually innovate and integrate fresh perspectives."
The potential revisions provide that the board of trustees has no fewer than three and no more than 13 members (there is currently no specified minimum or maximum), and establish qualifications for service on the Board beyond AOPA membership, as well as term limits.
To serve as the Chairman of the Board, the change drafted for consideration would require the chairman to have at least three consecutive years of service as a trustee, including at least one year leading one of the board's committees. The proposed new language also limits the chairman to six consecutive years of service in that post, barring extraordinary circumstances and majority support for any extension.
Qualifications to become any other trustee would also be codified if the bylaw changes are ultimately approved. The draft proposal lists trustee qualifications that include being an active or recently active general aviation pilot; being a current or past aircraft owner or having leased an aircraft; and making a commitment to participate in committees and public aviation events. Trustees would also be expected, under the draft proposal, to have expertise in one or more of AOPA's core missions or functions, such as marketing, finance, government affairs, or aviation safety, to name a few.
The changes under consideration would also establish an open nomination process for AOPA trustees, in which any member or trustee may be nominated during a 30-day period that is designated by the nominating committee that would take place at least 120 days prior to the annual meeting. Candidates would be required to submit a résumé and letter of interest describing their qualifications, along with the signatures of at least 25 members who support their nomination. The nominating committee would then present the nominees, including a summary of each candidate's background, to the full membership at least 30 days prior to the annual meeting.
Members have an opportunity to provide feedback about these potential changes through the online form and at the annual meeting to take place on May 12. Details including directions to drive or fly to the annual meeting, instructions for appointing a proxy, and an optional RSVP are available online.
The Board of Trustees intends to call a special meeting in the fall to vote on a final set of proposed changes to the AOPA Bylaws.
April 1. 2026
Updates regarding AOPA’s operations and Board of Trustees leadership
By James N. Hauslein, chairman, AOPA Board of Trustees
As we look forward to the Sun ’n Fun Aerospace Expo in April and our annual meeting in May, I want to share some updates regarding AOPA’s operations and Board of Trustees leadership. These updates reflect AOPA’s relentless commitment to advocating for general aviation and to evolving our leadership for the future. Your board’s principal motivation is positioning AOPA to represent our membership effectively and ensure that the organization thrives for the next 85 years.
Operational updates
This year is off to a fast start on many fronts. In February, the AOPA team hosted a full array of activities at our AOPA Fly-In during the Buckeye Air Fair, just outside of Phoenix, for the more than 38,000 pilots and aviation enthusiasts who attended. These included a Pilot Town Hall, Foundation meetings, and our exclusive members-only AOPA Flightline Chalet.
Our Government Affairs team continues working with members of Congress on legislative responses to the tragic 2025 DCA midair collision that could affect GA operations. Proposed bills would mandate ADS-B In in airspace where ADS-B Out is already required. AOPA is advocating for the use of portable ADS-B In devices to reduce potential costs for GA pilots if a mandate becomes law. We are also supporting legislation to prohibit the use of ADS-B data for airport fee collection, and we are working with the FAA to improve the designated pilot examiner (DPE) program, medical certification reform, ATC modernization, and airport protection.
As we share this update with our members, the AOPA team is preparing for Sun ’n Fun in Lakeland, Florida, from April 14 to 19. For those who attend, we look forward to engaging with you at our scheduled events and hospitality tent.
Governance update
As you know, AOPA has a long history of protecting GA and providing our members with essential benefits, such as Pilot Protection Services and the You Can Fly program. To safeguard this legacy, the board must continually innovate and integrate fresh perspectives. Achieving this goal requires periodic reviews of the entire organization, including our governance policies and procedures.
Your board began this review in 2024 and has recently received member feedback on AOPA governance. In response, we consulted experts in membership organizations, governance, and bylaw development. With their input and yours, the board is now in the advanced stages of recommending for member consideration several bylaw updates, including changes to the trustee nominating process, proxy requirements, board size, and the establishment of trustee qualifications and term limits. We will share more details ahead of the May 12 annual meeting and look forward to your feedback. This review is an important step in keeping AOPA strong, innovative, and positioned to serve our members and the broader GA community.
This evolution includes a commitment to renewing our leadership ranks. To that end, AOPA has added four independent trustees to our 11-person board during approximately the past two years. We continue to recruit and make way for fresh perspectives and the next generation of leadership. To support that effort, former Board Chair Bill Trimble and I have decided not to stand for reelection to the board at the May annual meeting. As pilots, aircraft owners, and long-term board members with decades of service between us, we are stepping down with mixed emotions, given our dedication and passion for AOPA’s mission. Still, we are confident that making way for the next generation of leaders is the right decision for AOPA.
I am pleased to announce that your board has elected Luke Wippler to assume the role of board chair. An AOPA member since 2005 and trustee since 2015, Luke is a private pilot with multiengine and seaplane ratings. He brings to this role an abiding passion for aviation and nearly 25 years of executive experience in the financial services industry. Luke combines strong business acumen with a deep passion for aviation and represents the next generation of AOPA leadership. The board strongly believes he is the right leader to guide AOPA’s next chapter.
I have total confidence in AOPA’s future. Under the astute leadership of Luke and the excellent AOPA team, our organization is well-positioned to thrive, innovate, and meet the numerous difficult challenges facing GA. It has been an honor to serve AOPA and all of you. Thank you for your support and membership in this great organization!
The Board of Trustees would be pleased to receive your feedback. Please address your comments to BoardofTrustees@AOPA.org.
Digital Airman Certificate Bill Clears U.S. House
Updated March 25, 2026
Measure would permit pilots to present electronic credentials during FAA inspections.
The U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 2247, the Airmen Certificate Accessibility Act, a bill from Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., that would allow pilots and other certificate holders to present either a physical certificate or a digital version when asked to show their credentials during a Federal Aviation Administration inspection.
The bill applies to FAA-issued airman certificates, including medical certificates, and says a digital airman certificate could be presented from an electronic device or, where internet access is available, through a cloud-based system. It also directs the FAA to establish methods for authentication and verification and to issue a final rule implementing the change by Nov. 30, 2028.
Burchett said the measure to allow digital airman certificates is intended to update certification requirements to reflect current technology.
“Technology has advanced, and aviation regulations should reflect that,” Burchett said. “If passengers can have their boarding passes on their phones, pilots should be able to digitally carry copies of certification documents. My bill will give pilots the flexibility to safely and securely present their credentials in a way that matches today’s digital world.”
The House approved H.R. 2247 alongside several other aviation measures, including H.R. 3410 to allow civil domestic supersonic flight over land, H.R. 6267, which would direct the Government Accountability Office to examine obstacles to wider use of digital documentation for aircraft parts, and H.R. 6427, which would give general aviation airports added flexibility for some construction projects.
NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen said the package of bills addresses issues that industry groups have been raising for years.
“Taken together, the bills promote innovation in aircraft development, efficiency through increased use of digitization and investment in aviation infrastructure,” Bolen said.
MOSIAC IS NOW THE LAW OF THE LAND
Sport Pilot 2.0 and EAA Chapters
By Christopher Gauger, EAA 746128, EAA Chapter Field Representative
October 2025 – One of the most important initiatives promoted by EAA has come to fruition. Effective October 22, 2025, pilots who hold a sport pilot certificate or fly under sport pilot privileges
in the United States will have access to a much wider range of aircraft they can fly. This reform to the U.S. Federal Aviation Regulations, known as the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC), was in the works for more than a decade.
The final rule was announced during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025, (see the next article below) and after years of advocacy by EAA and others, what we are calling Sport Pilot 2.0 is now in effect.
Top 5 Things to Know About Sport Pilot 2.0
1. 70 percent of the single-engine piston aircraft fleet in the UnitedStates are now eligible to be flown by sport pilots.
2. A maximum clean stall speed of 59 knots (67 mph) will be permitted for sport pilot-eligible aircraft.
3. Aircraft with up to 4 seats can be flown by sport pilots (increased from 2 seats).
4. Sport pilots can fly with up to 2 occupants in the aircraft (pilot plus one passenger).
5. There is no longer a maximum weight limitation for sport pilot-eligible aircraft.
MOSAIC also revises the light-sport aircraft category, allowing newer and more capable models of light-sport aircraft to be developed and sold on the market starting on July 24, 2026. It also expands
the scope of aircraft available for the Light Sport Repairman Maintenance (LSRM) rating, allowing more non-builder owners of amateur-built aircraft to perform their own annual condition inspections and other maintenance on their aircraft.
What Sport Pilot 2.0 Means for EAA Chapters
You may be wondering what effects Sport Pilot 2.0 will have on your EAA chapter and its members.
The biggest impact is that it will directly support EAA’s mission to grow participation in aviation. With a sport pilot certificate, we hope to see new aviators learn to fly in half the time and at half the cost, compared to those pursuing a private pilot certificate. Members of your chapter who just want to fly for fun now have more opportunities to do so, saving time and money to obtain their pilot certificate and relying on their driver’s license in place of an FAA-issued medical certificate or
BasicMed. More people will be able to enjoy The Spirit of Aviation.
Other positive impacts include:
More Aircraft to Fly: Sport pilots will have a much broader selection of aircraft to use for training and to own or rent. For example, common single-engine piston airplanes such asCessna 172s and most Piper PA-28s are now sport pilot eligible, whereas they were off-limits prior to MOSAIC due to the previous aircraft limitations. This means more people will be able to participate in general aviation activities.
More Sport Pilot CFIs: There are now more incentives for pilots to become a sport pilot certified flight instructor (in accordance with 14 CFR 61 Subpart K). The sport pilot CFI certificate is easier to obtain than the traditional CFI certificate. It allows instructors to train
sport pilot students in sport pilot-eligible aircraft and be compensated for it. With more sport pilot CFIs entering the field, this would make more CFIs available to train sport pilot students, which will also free up traditional CFIs to focus on training private pilots and those
pursuing advanced certificates and ratings such as instrument and commercial.
Homebuilt Aircraft: Sport pilots and those exercising sport pilot privileges will have more makes and models of homebuilt aircraft they can fly. This will directly support the homebuilding side of EAA, with many more kit planes and plans built airplanes being sport
pilot eligible.
Young Eagles & Eagle Flights: More pilots will be able to volunteer to provide EAA Young Eagles flights for kids and EAA Eagle Flights for adults. For example, a sport pilot will be able to fly Young Eagles in a Cessna 172, so long as they only fly one passenger at a time in
accordance with the sport pilot rules, in addition to adhering to the Young Eagles pilot requirements. This means your EAA chapter will have more pilots to recruit for Young Eagles rallies, Flying Start events, and one-o Young Eagles flights and Eagle Flights.
Ray Aviation Scholarship: The sport pilot certificate will be more attractive for potential scholars, especially those not pursuing a flying career. Although most Ray scholars seek a flying career, those who intend to work in a ground-based aviation role (e.g. aerospace
engineer, A&P mechanic, airport manager) would benefit from a sport pilot certificate. They can also upgrade to a private pilot certificate later in their aviation journeys if they decide to pursue something more advanced in the air.
These are just a handful of the effects that Sport Pilot 2.0 will have on the EAA chapters’ members and activities.
To learn more about MOSAIC and Sport Pilot 2.0, visit EAA.org/MOSAIC. If you have any questions specifically about MOSAIC and Sport Pilot 2.0, send them to mosaic@eaa.org or govt@eaa.org.
Q: Where can I read the rule?
A: The final rule, including the preamble and supporting documentation, can be found by clicking on the link at the bottom of this article. After October 22, 2025, the new rule language will be incorporated into relevant parts of the “FARs” (Chapter 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations) on all up-to-date online and print sources.
Q: When do the different parts of the rule take effect?
A: Sport pilot privileges will take effect October 22, 2025, 90 days after they are published in the Federal Register.
Light-sport aircraft standards will take effect July 24, 2026, 365 days after they are published.
Q: What is the new max “clean” stall speed?
A: The new max “clean” (VS1) stall speed is 59 knots. Anything with four or less seats and a stall speed of 59 knots or less is now sport pilot eligible. Sport pilots are allowed to have one passenger.
Q: What if my aircraft does not have a documented stall speed?
A: The bottom of the green arc on your airspeed indicator (or equivalent for nonstandard markings) should be your VS1 speed. Otherwise, the preamble of the rule recommends following the stall testing procedure specified in Advisory Circular 90-89C, Amateur-Built Aircraft and Ultralight Flight Test Handbook. EAA’s Flight Test Manual also includes a stall testing procedure.
Q: Can I fly as a sport pilot if I’ve been deferred or denied a medical?
A: No. Your most recent medical application must have been successful. (Read 14 CFR 61.23(c)(2)).
Q: Is my Cessna 172 a light-sport aircraft?
A: No. The term “Light-Sport Aircraft” now only refers to aircraft certification rules for aircraft designed and built to meet the requirements of the category. A Cessna 172 remains a standard
category aircraft.
Q: How does Sport Pilot 2.0 affect maintenance of legacy aircraft?
A: The MOSAIC final rule does not change how legacy certified aircraft are certified or maintained. While early discussions of MOSAIC did include a category for legacy aircraft to be recertified for
easier maintenance and modification, this proposal ultimately was not included in the proposed 2023 rule or the 2025 final rule.
Q: Do private pilot privileges change with the rule?
A: No. Private pilot certificates and privileges experience no change with this rule.
Q: Do private pilots have any special privileges versus sport pilots when operating under a driver's license medical?
A: No. If a private pilot wishes to exercise sport pilot privileges with a driver’s license medical, the regulations treat them no differently than a sport pilot, without any additional privileges. However,
private pilots are credited for previous training and don’t require the same endorsements sport pilots do for towered airport operations or any other complex endorsements previously achieved.
Q: How can I fly at night as a sport pilot?
A: You must have a current FAA medical certificate (3rd Class or higher) or BasicMed and have proper training and endorsements to fly at night.
Q: How can I exercise my new sport pilot privileges?
A: On October 22, 2025, you can fly any aircraft that fits into the new sport pilot specifications. Depending on the aircraft you may need additional training and endorsements. HOWEVER, all
pilots are strongly encouraged to obtain proper training and proficiency before acting as pilot in command of any aircraft.
Q: How do my privileges change as a current sport CFI?
A: Your instructor privileges expand with your PIC privileges as a sport pilot. Sport pilot CFIs who hold the proper medical certification, training, and endorsement may instruct at night under the
new rules.
Q: If I have taken an E-LSA repairman course, do I need to take another to be able to do annual inspections on E-AB?
A: No, you do not need to take another course. The repairman certificate you earned is applicable to airplanes certificated as experimental light-sport and experimental amateur-built (from plans or a kit).
Q: Can I get an instrument rating as a sport pilot?
A: No. You also may not exercise the privileges of an instrument rating when flying under sport pilot privileges.
Q: Can I conduct “aerial work” as a sport pilot for compensation or hire?
A: No. “Aerial Work” is a feature of the aircraft certification rule for new S-LSAs, allowing these aircraft to be used for certain commercial operations with the support of the manufacturer. The pilot will need to be appropriately rated.
Q: How will insurance companies react to Sport Pilot 2.0?
A: We cannot speak for insurance companies. They will set their rates and policies relative to the assessed risk. However, we have been through the rollout of the 2004 Sport Pilot rule and BasicMed, and insurance companies have generally been willing to insure pilots operating under these rules.
Our community is nearing a significant date — October 22, 2025 — that kicks o a “New Era in Recreational Aviation.” On this date, the changes to the sport pilot regulations as part of the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) final rule, or Sport
Pilot 2.0, take effect. These changes have the potential to benefit many areas of our community positively. Here are just a few:
Existing Sport Pilots
On this date, the 7,000-plus holders of sport pilot certificates will now have the ability to fly a host of different aircraft makes and models. This means that sport pilots will no longer be limited to just light-sport aircraft as defined in the 2004 rule, but now can access most of
the existing general aviation training fleet available at almost all local airports. With this change, sport pilots are no longer restricted to aircraft with a maximum weight of 1,320 pounds and two seats. They will be able to fly any aircraft with a clean stall speed (Vs1) of
59 knots or less, with a maximum of four seats, and up to one passenger. This includes the Cessna 150, 152, 172, and many 182s, many Piper Cherokees and Archers, and many legacy vintage aircraft such as Luscombes and older Bonanzas. To take advantage of these changes, sport pilots should be scheduling training flights and aircraft checkouts with their local flight schools and instructors now so that they are proficient to fly once the rule takes effect.
Existing Pilots holding Private Pilot or Higher Certificates
October 22, 2025, has special meaning for many other recreational aviators as well. On this date, pilots who hold private pilot certificates or higher and who choose to exercise sport pilot privileges can do so in any aircraft with a clean stall speed (VS1) of 59 knots or less, a
maximum of 4 seats, carrying up to one passenger, and, during daylight hours, utilizing a driver’s license in lieu of a third class medical or BasicMed. The ability to fly these larger aircraft with a driver’s license in lieu of a medical certificate means that many pilots can
transition from smaller aircraft, such as Ercoupes, Champs, Cubs, and past light-sport aircraft (1,320 pounds), to larger aircraft that now qualify. It may also mean that pilots who have not been flying recently may be returning to flying after a hiatus. These pilots should
also contact their local flight schools and FBOs to schedule time with an instructor and prepare for the opportunity to fly. Additionally, these people should review the status of their driver’s license. Hopefully, they haven’t missed an expiration date.
Flight Schools and Flight Instructors
The changes with Sport Pilot 2.0, especially those becoming effective on October 22, 2025, mean that flight schools and flight instructors are likely to have many more opportunities to engage in and promote sport pilot instruction. With this comes the need to understand thesport pilot certificate, as well as the importance of understanding pilots who are
“exercising sport pilot privileges.” These changes mean that most flight schools and flight instructors now have access to aircraft that make training sport pilots a viable option. This offers the ability to market aviation beyond a commercial career, highlighting the
recreational aspects, while utilizing most of the same aircraft you have access to today.
What’s Next?
The opportunities brought about by the FAA’s Sport Pilot 2.0 present many great opportunities for general aviation. It’s up to our community, our pilots, flight schools, instructors, aircraft manufacturers, and associations to creatively embrace these opportunities. EAA will continue to develop content and resources related to Sport Pilot 2.0
and post them at EAA.org/MOSAIC.
More questions?
Again, head to the eaa.org/mosiac website for answers!
If you have even more questions, or are bored this fall, here's the link to the official Federal Register publication for MOSIAC: https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/MOSAIC_Final_Rule_Issuance.pdf
THE COUNTDOWN TO AIRVENTURE 2026 CONTINUES-JULY 20, 2026
00
DaysDays
00
HrsHours
00
MinsMinutes
00
SecsSeconds
AV2025 statistics
BILLS TO STOP ADS-B MISUSE INTRODUCED IN CONGRESS -- but the fl legislature has passed it's version
UPDATE APRIL 1, 2026
The Florida legislature has passed a bill to stop the use of ADS-B to collect fees. It is currently on the Governors desk to be signed.
___________________________________________________________
Legislation introduced in Congress, the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act, seeks to address growing concerns about the misuse of ADS-B, which has been increasingly used to collect fees from pilots.
The bills, S.2175 and H.4146, were introduced June 26 by Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) and Rep. Bob Onder (R-Mo.), respectively.
The bills seek to do the following:
- Prohibit the use of ADS-B data to assist in the collection of fees from pilots or aircraft owners.
- Clarify that ADS-B data may only be used for its intended purposes of air traffic safety and efficiency.
- Give the secretary of transportation the discretion to authorize other uses of ADS-B data.
- Expand, to all federal, state, and local entities, a provision in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 preventing investigations from being initiated based solely on ADS-B data.
- Ensure public-use airports make transparent the impact of any new fees on general aviation and businesses and require revenue collected to be used for airside safety improvements.
“On behalf of AOPA, I want to thank Senator Budd and Representative Onder for leading on this important aviation safety issue. Both are active private pilots and understand that using ADS-B data for economic reasons clearly undermines the FAA’s 2020 ADS-B safety mandate intended to provide situational awareness of an aircraft’s position for air traffic control purposes,” said AOPA President Darren Pleasance.
“ADS-B is a critical safety technology mandated by the FAA and more accurate than radar. Abusing this technology to levy unfair, sometimes duplicative fees and threatening pilots with legal action will keep some general aviation pilots grounded, which is a loss for America’s economy, emergency response, and the aviation community at large,” said Budd.
Budd was joined by Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) with the introduction of S.2175. S The latest status as of 6/2025: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
“As a pilot with years of experience using ADS-B technology, I understand the game-changing impact it has had on aviation safety,” said Onder. “By communicating an aircraft’s identification, airspeed, heading and altitude, ADS-B has dramatically improved situational awareness for pilots, as well as the real-time data air traffic controllers need to keep pilots and passengers safe. Unfortunately, some third parties have taken advantage of this data to impose and collect exorbitant third-party landing fees and frivolous lawsuits targeted at general aviation pilots and travelers. These uses of data for purposes other than air traffic safety act as a deterrent for pilots to equip their aircraft with this potentially life-saving technology.”
AOPA works with airport managers and leaders to help find ways to diversify revenue streams and communicate effectively with those who use public airports.
GA pilots spent more than $600 million complying with the FAA’s 2020 safety mandate and were assured that ADS-B would only be used for improving safety and efficiency in the national airspace system.
Gov. Greg Gianforte (R-Mont.) recently signed into law legislation that would prevent airports in Montana from using ADS-B data to collect landing fees. This legislation was championed by state Rep. Shane Klakken (R-Grass Range). Similar legislation has also been introduced in the Minnesota legislature.
“We appreciate the recognition this issue is receiving at the state level, but we do want to avoid a patchwork of laws across the country and that is why these bills in Congress are so important,” added Pleasance.
The expansion of BasicMed privileges is LAW
Under the new law signed May 16, pilots may nowuse BasicMed privileges to fly aircraft weighing up to 12,500 pounds and certified to carry up to seven occupants. The previous aircraft weight limitation was 6,000 pounds, with certification for up to six occupants.
Read More About It From AOPA
Here:
https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2024/november/14/basicmed-expansion?utm_source=epilot&utm_medium=email
FAA to Restrict Access to Aircraft Registration Database
New rule aims to shield private aircraft owners from harassment
ADS-B was created as a means of making aviation safer, as it gave pilots an extra tool to maintain situational awareness. Unfortunately, ADS-B combined with third-party websites that track aircraft is making it possible for keyboard warriors (the pilot term for internet trolls) to track down the owners of aircraft through the Federal Aviation Administration aircraft registry.
These people send anonymous letters to the owner’s address as listed in the FAA database. Often these letters come from someone who doesn’t like aircraft and include a threat to report the pilot to the FAA for alleged violations or threatened with a lawsuit.
The FAA, as required by Public Law 118-63 as part of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 has implemented Section 803 Data Private which allows private aircraft owners to request that their name and address be kept private and not publicly available on FAA websites.
To do this, private aircraft owners and operators need to make an electronic request of the FAA through the Civil Aviation Registry Electronic Services (CARES).
How the agency will make this happen has not been determined yet, as the FAA is publishing a Request for Comment (RFC) in the Federal Register.
The FAA wants to know how often people or organizations access or use registered owner information and how is this information used, as well as what would be the impact on privacy, safety, and accessibility of information if the identified categories of registered owner information are removed from public availability.
In addition, there is the question of what the impact of the removal of this information would have on stakeholders who need the information as part of performing maintenance, safety checks and other regulatory compliance.
For more information contact the FAA at faa.aircraft.registry@faa.gov
ADS-B was created to promote safety, as it gives pilots an extra level of situational awareness. Unfortunately, it is also being misused by persons who want to curtail aviation in their community. Because the complaint letters are anonymous even when they contain threats of physical violence there is very little if anything law enforcement can do. Meanwhile, the FAA has to investigate allegations of violations, especially those that suggest safety was compromised such as an aircraft flying too low over a residential area.
REMEMBER - A GOOD PREFLIGHT IS VERY IMPORTANT!!!
UPCOMING & PAST LAUNCHES FROM KSC AND CCSFS
ULA WILL LAUNCH THE FALCON 9 AMAZON-LEO (LA-06) MISSION APRIL 27 @ TBD FROM SLC-41
SUCCESS! SPACEX LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 GPS III - SV-10 MISSION APRIL 21 @ 0253 FROM SLC-40
ULA WILL LAUNCH THE FALCON 9 AMAZON-LEO (LA-06) MISSION APRIL 27 @ TBD FROM SLC-41
A United Launch Alliance Atlas 5 rocket will launch a batch of 29 broadband internet satellites for Amazon Leo’s low Earth orbit constellation. This is the seventh out of nine Atlas 5 rockets purchased by Amazon to fly its satellites.
Atlas V 551 mission to deploy satellites for Amazon’s Project Kuiper broadband constellation.
The mission aims to strengthen the 3,236-satellite Low Earth Orbit (LEO) network designed to provide global, high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity.
SPACEX WILL LAUNCH THE FALCON 9 HEAVY DRAGONFLY MISSION JUL 5 @ TBD FROM SLC-39A
SUCCESS! SPACEX LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 GPS III - SV-10 MISSION APRIL 21 @ 0253 FROM SLC-40
ULA WILL LAUNCH THE FALCON 9 AMAZON-LEO (LA-06) MISSION APRIL 27 @ TBD FROM SLC-41
A SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket will launch NASA’s Dragonfly mission, which consists of a rotorcraft designed by the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) that will explore Saturn’s icy moon, Titan. The mission was originally selected in 2019 and went through multiple plan iterations across fiscal years 2020 through 2022. It passed its Preliminary Design Review in March 2023 and then its Critical Design Review in April 2025. The mission has a total lifecycle cost of $3.35 billion, of which, $256.6 million was awarded to SpaceX to provide launch services and other mission related costs. The 20-day launch window opens on July 5, 2028.
SUCCESS! SPACEX LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 GPS III - SV-10 MISSION APRIL 21 @ 0253 FROM SLC-40
SUCCESS! SPACEX LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 GPS III - SV-10 MISSION APRIL 21 @ 0253 FROM SLC-40
SEMI-SUCCESSFUL BLUE ORIGIN LAUNCH OF THE BLUEBIRD BLOCK 2 MISSION (ON NEW GLENN) WAS APR 19 @ 1045
GPS III (Global Positioning System) is the first evolution of the third generation of GPS satellites. The U.S. Air Force announced in May 2008 that a team led by Lockheed Martin had won the competition to build the next-generation Global Positioning System (Navstar) Space System program, known as GPS III. This program will improve position, navigation, and timing services for warfighter and civil users worldwide and provide advanced anti-jam capabilities yielding superior system security, accuracy, and reliability. When fully deployed, the GPS III constellation will feature a cross-linked command and control architecture, allowing the entire GPS constellation to be updated simultaneously from a single ground station. Additionally, a new spot beam capability for enhanced military (M-Code) coverage and increased resistance to hostile jamming will be incorporated. These enhancements will improve accuracy and ensure availability for military and civilian users worldwide.
SEMI-SUCCESSFUL BLUE ORIGIN LAUNCH OF THE BLUEBIRD BLOCK 2 MISSION (ON NEW GLENN) WAS APR 19 @ 1045
SEMI-SUCCESSFUL BLUE ORIGIN LAUNCH OF THE BLUEBIRD BLOCK 2 MISSION (ON NEW GLENN) WAS APR 19 @ 1045
SEMI-SUCCESSFUL BLUE ORIGIN LAUNCH OF THE BLUEBIRD BLOCK 2 MISSION (ON NEW GLENN) WAS APR 19 @ 1045
Blue Origin learned that even though they had a successful liftoff of one of their #NewGlenn rockets that included the second launch of a booster as well as its second landing. The oopsie is that the payload sitting on top of that rocket didn't make it to its intended orbit.
Stuff happens and they will be assessing what went wrong and will make corrections just like #SpaceX has done when they have had oopsies.
New Glenn is Blue Origin's heavy-lift, two-stage orbital rocket (320 ft tall) designed for high-frequency reusability.
This was the third launch of a New Glenn rocket to date..
SUCCESS! SPACEX LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 STARLINK MISSION 10-24 APR 14 @ 0359 FROM SLC-40
SEMI-SUCCESSFUL BLUE ORIGIN LAUNCH OF THE BLUEBIRD BLOCK 2 MISSION (ON NEW GLENN) WAS APR 19 @ 1045
SUCCESS! ULA LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 THE FALCON 9 NG-24 MISSION APR 11 @ 0741 FROM SLC-40
Starlink is a constellation of satellites that orbit low Earth and transmit broadband internet. It's operated by SpaceX, a private spaceflight company.
- How it works
Starlink satellites act as communication bridges between ground stations and satellite antennas on users' buildings. The satellites orbit at a lower altitude than traditional models, which reduces latency and allows for faster data transmission.
- History
Starlink began with the launch of two test satellites in February 2018. It entered an experimental connectivity phase in fall 2020 and began full commercial operations in 2021.
- Satellites
SpaceX hopes to have as many as 42,000 satellites in the Starlink constellation. The current V2 Starlink satellite weighs about 1,760 lbs at launch, which is almost three times heavier than the older generation satellites.
The booster was recovered on a barge on the Atlantic Ocean about 8 minutes after launch.
SUCCESS! ULA LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 THE FALCON 9 NG-24 MISSION APR 11 @ 0741 FROM SLC-40
SEMI-SUCCESSFUL BLUE ORIGIN LAUNCH OF THE BLUEBIRD BLOCK 2 MISSION (ON NEW GLENN) WAS APR 19 @ 1045
SUCCESS! ULA LAUNCHED THE FALCON 9 THE FALCON 9 NG-24 MISSION APR 11 @ 0741 FROM SLC-40
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket will launch a Northrop Grumman Cygnus spacecraft, a cargo vehicle, to the International Space Station. The spacecraft was named the S.S. Steven R. Nagel in honor of the former NASA astronaut who flew four space shuttle flights and amassed 723 hours in space.
The NASA cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The mission will use a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket to launch the upgraded Cygnus XL spacecraft from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, carrying over 8,200 pounds of supplies and research, including the LeopardSat-1 CubeSat.
- Mission Designation: 24th Cargo Resupply Mission (NG-24).
- Payloads: Includes the University of Cincinnati's LeopardSat-1 CubeSat to study microgravity effects on electronics.
- Spacecraft Upgrades: Features the new, larger Cygnus XL module.
- The booster was recovered on Pad A at KSC about 8 minutes after launch.
Our History
Daytona Beach's Spirit of Aviation
Daytona Beach's Spirit of Aviation
Chapter 288 started in the 1970s, and originally met at nearby Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The chapter took regular trips to the Spruce Creek Fly-In, located in Port Orange, Florida, and soon moved their meeting location to Spruce Creek. Chapter 288 is unique, because of it's location. 288 is located at the intersection of young aviation enthusiasts from the University and experienced aviators along Florida's Space Coast.
Daytona Beach's Spirit of Aviation
Daytona Beach's Spirit of Aviation
Daytona Beach's Spirit of Aviation
Chapter 288 works to continue the spirit of general aviation in Daytona Beach area. We host several events throughout the year for our members which feature prominent aviators and aviation technology. Chapter 288 members also volunteer at aviation related functions throughout the community to teach people about general aviation. Volunteering at local airshows and hosting
Young Eagles events are some of the ways that EAA 288 members participate in the community. Chapter 288's members are also very involved with the EAA on a national level. The chapter has a good turnout at the EAA's annual fly-in "AirVenture" in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
EAA HQ OSHKOSH, WI
Daytona Beach's Spirit of Aviation
EAA HQ OSHKOSH, WI
The EAA works on a national level to help endure the "spirit of aviation." They work to get children who have an interest in becoming a pilot, air traffic controller, mechanic, etc. achieve their goals. EAA sponsors workshops for homebuilders teaching skills neccesary for them to build their own airplanes. Founded in 1953 by Paul Poberezney, the EAA has worked for over 60 years to keep general aviation alive and prospering into the future. They work today with other aviation organizations to ensure that aviation friendly laws are passed in Washington D.C., and to help ensure that general aviaiton will continue well into the future. To learn more about the Experimental Aircraft Association on a national level, and how to join, please visit their website at EAA.ORG