The path to a modern set of rules
After around a decade of intensive coordination between the authorities, industry and associations, the new regulations for non-complex aircraft have been adopted. MOSAIC - short for "Modernisation of Special Airworthiness Certification" - replaces the previous LSA categories, which were long regarded as an obstacle to innovation. The public announcement at the AirVenture aviation trade fair in Oshkosh emphasises the importance of this step for the entire aviation sector.
The previous restrictions - in particular the rigid maximum take-off weight - are giving way to a more flexible, performance-orientated approach based on criteria such as the number of seats, flight performance and safety parameters.
Technical key points of MOSAIC
The new regulations introduce comprehensive innovations for the design, certification and use of light aircraft. The most important key data are as follows:
- Up to four seats are permitted - a doubling compared to previous LSA limits.
- Retractable landing gear and controllable pitch propeller may be used.
- Instead of a fixed weight limit performance-related limits now apply.
- Maximum stall speed (clean configuration): 59 kt
- Maximum stall speed in landing configuration: 61 kt
- Maximum speed: 250 kt
- No restriction on the type of drive - combustion engines, electric motors, hybrid drives and more are permitted.
A significant advance: older aircraft types can also be operated under MOSAIC, provided they fulfil the required construction regulations.
Extended rights for sport pilots
The new regulation not only brings technical progress, but also significantly expands the rights of sport pilots. Under MOSAIC, holders of the Sport Pilot Certificate will in future also be allowed to fly aircraft with retractable landing gear and variable pitch propellers - provided they complete the relevant differences training.
For the first time Night flight (NVFR) possible with this licence category. This not only increases flexibility, but also makes it more attractive for private pilots, who were previously restricted by regulatory limits.
Flight schools and charter companies will benefit in particular, as the extended range of licences will open up new target groups and increase the range of use of existing aircraft.
Stimulus for innovations and new technologies
The industry sees MOSAIC as an overdue liberation from a rigid regulatory corset. The new regulations enable a technological leap forward: manufacturers can realise modern aircraft designs with greater efficiency, safety and sustainability - without being held back by outdated limitations.
MOSAIC also opens up new perspectives for electric and hybrid propulsion systems and vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The integration of such concepts into the LSA sector was previously considered difficult to realise - now realistic options for certification and operation are emerging.
Europe: observer or imitator?
Although MOSAIC applies exclusively to US airspace, European authorities and manufacturers are keeping a close eye on the new rules. The debate on harmonising technical regulations has been ongoing in Europe for years - particularly in the ultralight and echo class sectors.
A comparable set of regulations could bring considerable advantages for European manufacturers. Simplified, centralised certification would facilitate market access and accelerate the development of modern aircraft. It is not yet clear whether the European licensing system will also follow suit - or whether only the construction regulations will be adapted.
Conclusion
MOSAIC opens a new chapter in general aviation. The consistent move away from weight limits in favour of performance-oriented criteria creates more freedom for manufacturers and pilots. At the same time, the expansion of licence rights will open up the market, benefiting flight schools and recreational pilots alike. Even if the regulations only apply in the USA for the time being, their influence can be felt globally - Europe could be the next step.
Source references:
Aviation magazine