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CFI useing experimental or minimum insured plane?

Asked by: 3059 views ,
FAA Regulations, Flight Instructor

Okay, so I'm about to start college next fall pursuing a Flight technology degree.  I plan on purchasing a light sport or older airplane to lighten the cost and get to a 1000 hour.  I did the math and if I was to fly 35hrs plus on any of the modules I have considered, after an annual, hanger fee, insurance and a little cushion per hour to replaces fluids and have a spare fund, it is cheaper than renting the schools Cessna 150's.  I know I need to do flight instruction in their aircraft but to fill the other hours I was going to use this along with flight instruction at the university.  SO my question, if my aircraft happens to be experimental or only carries liability insurance, can I give FREE flight instruction from it when I earn my CFI, I want to get my girl friend her private and possible if my plane has the capabilities get my dad his instrument rating, or is that not a possibility? I realize the experimental won't have the instrument option but about giving privates for free in a experimental or minimum insured plane? Would I just need to abided by the 100 hour inspections? or do I need another insurance to give lesson that I make no money on?  If I go experimental I will not insure. 

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1 Answers

  1. Best Answer


    Kris Kortokrax on Nov 23, 2014

    First, the insurance issue. The FAA requires insurance for air carriers, but there is no insurance requirement for conducting flight instruction. However, unless you can afford to buy the airplane outright, the institution giving you a loan will want to see insurance coverage, even if the plane is experimental. Also, while you may elect not to carry hull insurance, you still should carry liability insurance to cover you for property damage or injury to occupants of your airplane.

    Second, the cost for most light sport airplanes will be substantial because of the demand for them. Many pilots who are unable to pass the medical exam seek light sport airplanes to continue flying. You might likely be able to find a Cessna 150 or 152 cheaper than a light sport airplane.

    Third, make sure that your college program doesn’t require you to fly so many hours with them. Any time you log will count to meet FAA requirements, but your school may require you to fly so many hours for each course.

    Lastly, you can give away anything you want. The FAA really starts getting involved when you charge for flight. 100 hour inspections are required for an aircraft you provide to conduct flight instruction for hire. If you don’t charge for the aircraft and instruction, you don’t need the 100 hour. If you plan to give instruction in an experimental airplane, you need a Letter of Deviation Authority if you will be providing and charging for the aircraft. If you give it away, you don’t need the LODA. The FAA will not issue a LODA to give instruction toward a certificate or rating in an experimental airplane.

    The operating limitations for an experimental airplane will most likely allow instrument flight, if the plane is equipped as required in 91.205.

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