We participated in European Light Aircraft meeting between members of the MDM.032 rulemaking group and European Microlight- and LSA-manufacturers and associations in Prague at 18th & 19th December 2006.

Workshop, prepared by Jan Fridrich was trying to show interest of european UL organizations and European producers, delivered majority amount of LSA airplanes in USA, which in the same time are not able to sell our original UL aircraft adapted for 600 kg MTOW in Europe.

So there were discussed various alternatives what to do and which kind of requirements basic limitation is the best for Europe.

Although all main European producers were here, negotiations will be not simplest, because some of countries ( especially France) would like to have "more freedom" - what can make problems by its approval by EASA Conclusion of the ELA meeting :

We the undersigned European Manufacturers of Light Airplanes and Associations have during the meeting in Prague come to the following conclusion and request to the EASA and the political authorities:

1. The definition â??commercial flyingâ??:

With the existing definition of non-commercial activities according to EU COM 579 several important activities like training in flight schools, clubs offering paid flights, aero-towing with payment, rent for non commercial use or aerial photography would not be possible under simplified regulation. This cannot be accepted by the European Manufacturers of Light Airplanes and Associations and will prevent reanimation of recreational aviation in Europe.

2. Only with an affordable and easy-to-obtain pilot license new pilots will be won in Europe â?? therefore all activities in the scope of the Leisure PPL are very important for Light Aviation.

3. Rules and Certification:

a. The EASA and the political authorities should modify Part 21 in the way as was presented in EASA A-NPA 14/2006 presentation (in Prague at 18th December 2006), which will allow simpler development, quality assurance, production, manufacturing and continued airworthiness rules.

b. An acceptable limitation for a new powered aircraft category for us is MTOM below 750 kg

c. ASTM International standards should be used as an acceptable means of compliance for design, production, maintenance and quality assurance. The manufacturer as well as the Associations and the EASA should participate in the ongoing development of these standards to ensure continuous applicability.

d. To ensure a quick time line for implementation and efficient ways of communication, the EASA should allow existing (nationally qualified) entities like PFA, BMAA, DULV, LAA, DAeC etc.. to continue their activities in certifying, licensing, training, etc..