A New Dawn for Light-Sport Aviation: FAA’s MOSAIC Rule Phase 2 Takes Effect
On July 24, 2026, general aviation pilots and manufacturers celebrated a significant milestone as Phase 2 of the FAA’s Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) rule came into effect. This rule change is seen as the most substantial shift in recreational aviation in over two decades.
The newly implemented rules replace the outdated 1,320-pound maximum takeoff weight limit for light-sport aircraft (LSA) with a performance-based 61-knot stall speed criterion. Under the MOSAIC rule, fixed-wing light-sport category aircraft can now be equipped with:
- Up to four seats
- Retractable landing gear
- Constant-speed propellers
- Electric powerplants
This significant change paves the way for a new generation of capable, affordable training aircraft.
Phase 1 of MOSAIC, which broadened sport pilot privileges, was launched on October 22, 2025, making approximately three-quarters of the general aviation fleet accessible to sport pilots. The currently active Phase 2 governs the airworthiness certification of brand-new light-sport category aircraft. The FAA is also accepting public comments on related ASTM consensus standards until August 17, 2026.
AOPA Acting Co-President Katie Pribyl praised the rule, stating that it will make “general aviation safer, more affordable, and more accessible.” Industry leaders at EAA describe MOSAIC as “Sport Pilot 2.0” — a generational reform that could lower barriers to entry and energize the pilot pipeline for decades to come.
Source: General Aviation News – FAA Accepts ASTM Standards for MOSAIC Light-Sport Aircraft