The Experimental Aircraft Association has debuted an online listing of Letter of Deviation Authority (LODA) holders for instruction in experimental aircraft.
The list, categorized by state, includes CFIs who are authorized by the FAA to offer certain types of instruction for hire in their experimental aircraft for the purposes of type-specific training. FARs otherwise prohibit flight instructors from receiving compensation for the operating costs of an experimental aircraft.
The list of LODA-holding instructors makes finding transition training easier for builders and new owners of experimental aircraft, according to EAA officials.
Using an E-AB LODA instructor allows pilots to become familiar flying a similar aircraft to their own (during Phase 1 testing or at any point after). Proper transition training is an essential first step toward safe operation of experimental aircraft and a key element in the continuing effort to improve aviation safety, EAA officials noted.
Publication of this list was one of four safety recommendations made by the NTSB directly to EAA in its study of amateur-built safety earlier this year. The other three recommendations include:
Create a Type Club Coalition that includes kit manufacturers, type clubs, and pilot and owner groups — EAA officials say this is nearly completed, with a website expected to go live this week — and 1) develop transition training resources and 2) identify and apply incentives to encourage both builders of experimental amateur-built aircraft and purchasers of used E-AB aircraft to complete the training that is developed. (Completed)
Identify and apply incentives to encourage owners, builders, and pilots of E-AB aircraft to complete flight test training prior to conducting flight tests of E-AB aircraft. (Not completed but significant progress made, according to EAA officials.)
Work with the EAA membership, aircraft kit manufacturers, and avionics manufacturers to develop standards for the recording of data in electronic flight displays, engine instruments, or other recording devices to be used in support of flight tests or continued airworthiness of E-AB aircraft. (Not completed but significant progress made, officials said.)
For more information: EAA.org
