The N&O’s Josh Shaffer took a spin in a light-sport aircraft (LSA) and I’m itching to try one. An LSA is a lighter-weight aircraft that burns automotive gasoline, cruises at 115 MPH, doesn’t require the unbelievably expensive FAA-ordered overhauls, and can be flown with only 20 hours of training. While its true that a heavier aircraft like the Cessna 152 has the potential for IFR flight, it seems to me that most casual pilots would do well to consider a sport aircraft instead.

I’ve always wanted to become a pilot, and while I don’t have spare change to get certified right now, that goal is certainly closer with an LSA than it is with the more expensive planes.