MOSAIC FAQ: Retract Gear, IFR, Night
Common questions about the MOSAIC rule — does it allow sport pilots to fly retract, IFR, or at night? Plain answers.
A clean Q&A on the parts of MOSAIC that get the most confusion.
Does MOSAIC let sport pilots fly retractable gear?
The aircraft can have retractable gear under MOSAIC. A sport pilot can fly such an aircraft if they receive proper training and endorsements for that specific aircraft. The complex aircraft endorsement (§61.31(e)) still applies if the aircraft meets the complex definition.
Does MOSAIC let sport pilots fly IFR?
No. The IFR rating is a separate certificate and requires at minimum a private pilot certificate. MOSAIC does not change pilot certification requirements — it changes aircraft and privilege definitions.
Does MOSAIC let sport pilots fly at night?
No. Sport pilot is day VFR only. Night flight requires a private pilot certificate.
Can a sport pilot now fly a Cessna 172?
Many Cessna 172 models fall within the MOSAIC performance envelope (specifically older 172s with lower stall speeds). Verify each specific aircraft against the rule — newer 172S/SP variants may exceed Vs1 limits. When it does qualify, a sport pilot can fly it day VFR with one passenger.
Can sport pilots carry more than one passenger?
No. The one-passenger limit stays under MOSAIC. The aircraft can have four seats, but the sport pilot can only carry one.
Does my old LSA still qualify under MOSAIC?
Yes. All aircraft certified under the original LSA rule remain LSA and are flyable by sport pilots. MOSAIC expands the category — it doesn't retire the old one.
Do I need to re-test or get a new certificate?
No. Existing sport pilot certificates are valid for the expanded MOSAIC privileges. Standard aircraft-specific checkouts and endorsements still apply.
What about my LSA repairman certificate?
The LSA repairman provisions are updated as part of MOSAIC to align with the broader aircraft envelope. Check the FAA's published rule for specifics on the LSRM-M and LSRI changes.
Will insurance be available for sport pilots flying MOSAIC aircraft?
Yes, but expect underwriters to take 12-18 months to develop confident pricing for new combinations (e.g., sport pilots in retract MOSAIC LSA). Existing combinations (sport pilot in Jabiru, RV-12, etc.) are unaffected.
How does A4 fit?
A4's fleet already qualifies under both rules. We add MOSAIC-eligible aircraft based on what makes economic and operational sense, not because we have to react to the rule change.