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10/21/04 - LSA INDUSTRY STANDARDS NOW AVAILABLE THROUGH ASTM INTERNATIONAL
EAA’s Lawrence chairs ASTM committee that created aircraft standards
More than two years of cooperative work by aviation industry officials, user groups and government agencies are paying off for sport pilots, as ASTM International is releasing the first edition of consensus standards for light-sport aircraft. This set of standards represents a milestone for recreational aviation, as it marks the first time that non-government entities joined with the Federal Aviation Administration to draft and approve aircraft manufacturing and maintenance standards.
Earl Lawrence, EAA’s vice president of industry and regulatory affairs, chaired the ASTM committee that drafted the consensus standards. The standards cover the design, manufacturing, maintenance and quality of aircraft that will be used in the light-sport aircraft category. These aircraft include such diverse types as fixed-wing airplanes, powered parachutes, gyroplanes and others.
“These standards have emerged because of the groundbreaking approach used by FAA and the aviation community to get it done,” Lawrence said. “EAA is proud to be a part of this group and helping to lead the sport-pilot revolution that will change and advance recreational aviation.”
The ASTM committee will continue its work as the sport pilot/light-sport aircraft infrastructure continues to be put in place. Such standards as those for airparks, fixed-base operators and other vital support providers are still under development.
Copies of the new 83-page book that covers the light-sport aircraft standards are available through ASTM International, either by calling 610-832-9585 or through the organization’s web site at www.astm.org. The soft-cover book is priced at $125 for North American residents or $138 to other international addresses.
ASTM International is one of the largest voluntary standards-developing organizations in the world. It provides a forum for the development and publication of voluntary consensus standards for materials, products, systems, and services. For over a century, industries around the world have turned to ASTM International for the development of voluntary consensus standards. Known for their high technical quality and market relevance, these standards are an important part of the information infrastructure that guides design, manufacturing, and trade in the global economy. |
