Question: I'm a private pilot and have been on a flying hiatus since the early 2000s. I'm now interested in getting back into the air as a sport pilot. What do I have to do?

Answer: As a private pilot, you will need to complete a flight review and—if you plan to take along a passenger—meet recent flight experience requirements.

The sport pilot eligibility standards require you to hold at least a valid state-issued driver's license in lieu of an FAA airman medical certificate, although a third class medical certificate is also acceptable.

You are limited to flying aircraft that qualify under the sport pilot rule—some examples are: the Piper J-3/J-4 Cub, Ercoupe 415C, Aeronca 7AC, Taylorcraft BC12D, TL Ultralight StingSport, and Powrachute AirWolf. Additional information on this subject is outlined on AOPA's Sport Pilot Web page.