New Rules Ease Access to Canada for LSA

Transport Canada recently revised its rules, making it easier for U.S.-registered aircraft in the Light Sport category to fly in. Until now, LSA operators wishing to fly to Canada needed to call Transport Canada authorities to receive authorization, obtain a validation form to be kept in the aircraft and pay a fee of $100. Under the new rule, there is now a standardized validation form — the Canadian equivalent of U.S. experimental aircraft operating limitations — so LSAs are now treated much the same as amateur-built aircraft in the U.S. They can download the form on line and follow the customs requirements. The fee has been eliminated. Transport Canada still requires a valid private pilot certificate (and at least a Third Class Medical certificate), so Sport Pilot certificate holders are still not eligible to fly there, but officials are optimistic that restriction could also be lifted in the foreseeable future.