Updated guidelines on Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA)

The Brazilian Civil Aviation Agency (Anac) published Revision D of Supplemental Instruction No. 21-007. The main update in this revision, made public on December 19th, is the acceptance of the consensus standard ASTM F3768−25 Standard Specification for IFR Operations in IMC for a Light-Sport Aircraft, which allows light-sport aircraft to conduct instrument flight (IFR) under instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).  

This measure addresses the growing demand of general aviation, particularly for pilot training in instrument flight. It is important to highlight that the F3768−25 standard has limitations: instrument flights cannot be conducted under icing or lightning conditions. In addition, operators must comply with the applicable requirements of RBAC 91 for IFR operations. 

The development of the consensus standard by ASTM was prioritized in response to a request presented by ANAC, aiming to meet the needs of the Brazilian market. ASTM standards are developed with industry leadership, with civil aviation authorities participating throughout the process. 

The discussion process began in September 2023, with the participation of Brazilian and foreign light-sport aircraft manufacturers, as well as international civil aviation authorities such as ANAC and the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). 

With this update, Anac reinforces its commitment to expanding the possibilities for the use of light-sport aircraft, promoting greater international harmonization, and strengthening pilot training. The Agency also continues to promote the safe expansion of the LSA category and actively partakes discussions within the ASTM International F37 Committee.