5 min readMay 17, 2026

modern opens up the pilot privilege to a much broader range of aircraft based on performance, not category. Here is a working list of what becomes eligible.

Note: this list is based on current modern criteria and aircraft published specifications. Final eligibility depends on each aircraft's weight, stall speed, and configuration. Always verify against the aircraft's TCDS before assuming pilot eligibility.

Two-seat trainers that move in

• Cessna 150 — yes, the classic trainer
• Cessna 152 — yes
• Piper PA-22 Tri-Pacer — yes (most variants)
• Aeronca 7AC Champ — already eligible under old rule
• Taylorcraft BC-12 — already eligible

Four-seat aircraft now in reach

• Cessna 172 — variants within the new Vs1 limit (typically older 172s with lower stall speeds)
• Piper PA-28-140/151 Cherokee — likely yes, lower-HP variants
• Cessna 170 — likely yes
• Maule M-4 / early M-5 — likely yes
• Diamond DA-20 — already at the aircraft edge

A pilot flying one of these can still only carry one passenger, regardless of seat count.

Light Sport that remain eligible

• Light Sport J230 / J230-D / J250 (A4's fleet)
• Van's RV-12
• Tecnam P92, P2002, P2008
• CubCrafters Carbon Cub series
• Pipistrel Sinus, Virus, Velis
• Vashon Ranger R7
• Bristell B23, NG5
• Czech Sport Aircraft SportCruiser / PiperSport

Aircraft that still require private pilot

• Twin-engine aircraft
• Cessna 182 and larger
• Higher-performance singles (Bonanza, Cirrus SR22, Mooney)
• Turboprops
• Anything with night/IFR-only certification you intend to use those privileges in

What this changes for clubs and renters

The biggest practical change: every flying club with a 150 or 172 in the fleet has new aircraft that pilots can rent. That expands access dramatically. A4 will continue to focus on Light Sport — clean glass panels, fuel efficiency, and a fleet that was built for sport flying, not retrofitted for it.

See A4's fleet · Apply