As the powered parachute gains acceptance in the flying community, there will be times when we will need to educate airport managers about our right to fly at federally funded airports. However, we may need to overcome some misinformation and personal bias. Some concerns are justified and some are not. Over the years, there have been a number of incidents at public airports with powered parachutes. This has lead to some "bad press" for our sport. Therefore, we may encounter some genuine skepticism when we show up to fly. Be prepared to listen to negative views about the powered parachute. Your PPC may be referred to as an ultralight as the stories unfold. Just let them relate their experience without being defensive and acknowledge their concerns or reservations.
Even though the Sport Pilot regulations were published in 2004, many pilots outside our flying community simply are not aware of the regulations that firmly establish our rightful place in aviation. This may include airport managers who honestly believe they can prohibit powered parachute operations. Just like general aviation, our rights come with a responsibility to understand the privileges and limits of our certificate. We need a good knowledge of the regulations that pertain to airport operations. If so, we can make a professional presentation to an uninformed or misinformed airport manager. Moreover, we have an opportunity to leave a good impression when we emphasize our desire for safe operations at their airport. We do not need permission, just their cooperation. When we demonstrate our knowledge of airport procedures, regulations and our willingness to be a good neighbor flyer, we can quickly bring down barriers. Our posture should indicate we are professional and confident. We should not feel intimidated, knowing the regulations support our right to access.
There are four principle points we can make to support our right to fly a powered parachute at public airports.
*First, we hold an FAA Sport Pilot certificate. Just like our general aviation cousins, we received training from a Certified Flight Instructor, passed an FAA knowledge test, an FAA oral test and practical exam. We have a logbook endorsement to fly a powered parachute.
*Second, we have a registered (N-numbered) aircraft that, as a category, enjoys the same airport access privileges as general aviation aircraft. This includes both SLSA and ELSA. Our Airworthiness Certificate does not have limitations that prohibit operations at public airports. Operations in class B, C and D airspace is also permitted with a logbook endorsement from a CFI with a powered parachute rating. (See Section 61.325)
*Third, with respect to class G (non-towered) airports; the regulations establish a general rule for powered parachutes. Section 91.126(b) (2) reads; "Each pilot of a helicopter or a powered parachute must avoid the flow of fixed-wing aircraft." This regulation establishes our right to fly at non-towered airports by the issuance special traffic pattern instructions.
*Finally, the FAA elaborates on class G operations for powered parachutes in the Powered Parachute Flying Handbook (publication FAA-H-8083-29). It provides advice and specific operating suggestions at public airports.
In summary, Chapter 10 lists the following operating options.
1. A powered parachute may use off-runway areas for takeoff and landings
2. A powered parachute may establish an off runway traffic pattern
3. A powered parachute may fly a pattern that does not conform to the published pattern
4. A powered parachute may establish turns in the pattern opposite the established pattern
5. A powered parachute may use runways for takeoff and landing
The key thing to remember is that these discretionary considerations must;
a. avoid traffic conflicts with the established pattern
b. allow a minimum of 500 ft of vertical separation in the pattern
c. comply with published noise abatement rules, if any
d. comply with special airport restrictions by published NOTAMS/TFR
e. observe right-of-way rules (See Section 91.113(g))
f. monitor and announce your intentions on the appropriate airport radio frequency.
g. Use common sense, good judgment and collision avoidance procedures at all times
Carry a copy of the regulations (FAR/AIM) and a printout of chapter 10 in your flight bag for quick reference.