View Full Version : Importing LSA from the US
Has anyone recently imported an LSA from the US? If so what's the best way to do it, the best people to organise it, etc.? Also, what were the costs, and any hidden pitfalls?
Mark 1
18th Jun 2011, 04:51
An LSA won't have a standard category airworthiness certificate, so can't be operated internationally on the N reg without specific permission of a foreign state (normally only granted for short periods). It also won't qualify for a standard Cof A in any other country.
So it will only be permitted if it conforms to the type certificate of a standard certified aircraft or is eligible for a permit to fly (possible for some amateur built types like the RV-12).
Do you have a type in mind?
If so, you may get a more specific answer.
[Edit. Just noticed that you're in Oz, so you will need to contact your own authority to see whether it qualifies for any kind of airworthiness approval).
The aircraft is probably going to be a used Flight Design CT. The intention would be to deregister it state-side and re-register it in Australia under the RA-Aus classification rather than GA.
Meant to add that it can be registered in Australia under both GA and RA-Aus
Genghis the Engineer
18th Jun 2011, 07:50
Almost certainly, your best source of advice will be RAAus who administer the system and aeroplanes within Australia.
G
Mark 1
19th Jun 2011, 05:09
Two ways to get it there: fly it or ship it.
Flying involves an IFR 2000 mile leg to Hawaii, so probably isn't an option.
Shipping means packing into a 20', 30' or 40' container and sailing across the high seas. I know of one company that has shipped aircraft to Oz called aussiecarimports, but there are probably plenty of others.
You need to cancel the US registration, get a local registration and airworthiness inspection to get your local airworthiness approval.
A pre-buy inspection by an A&P, who has been briefed on your local requirements, would be a good idea.