•  Since the WSC aircraft is designed without the weight  and drag of a tail, the performance is signifi cantly  increased. The aircraft can take off and land in short  fields, has good climb rates, can handle a large  payload, has a good glide ratio, and is fuel effi cient.  The WSC LSA typically can carry 600 pounds of  people, fuel, and baggage. • 1,430 pounds (650 kilograms) for an aircraft  intended for operation on water 2. A maximum airspeed in level flight with maximum  continuous power (V$_{H}$) of not more than 120 knots  calibrated (computed) air speed (CAS) under standard  atmospheric conditions at sea level. 3. A maximum stalling speed or minimum steady fl ight  speed without the use of lift-enhancing devices  (V$_{S1}$) of not more than 45 knots CAS at the aircraft’s  maximum certificated takeoff weight and most critical  center of gravity. 4. A maximum seating capacity of no more than two  persons, including the pilot. 5. A single reciprocating engine. 6. A fixed or ground-adjustable propeller. 7. Fixed landing gear, except for an aircraft intended for  operation on water. 8. Fixed or retractable landing gear, or a hull, for an  aircraft intended for operation on water. 1. A maximum takeoff weight of not more than— • 1,320 pounds (600 kilograms) for aircraft not  intended for operation on water; or  Weight-Shift Control LSA Requirements  Flight Operations and Pilot Certifi cates Besides having large and small wings for different speeds,  the WSC aircraft wings can have wires for bracing, struts,  or a combination of both. Throughout this handbook, both  are used in diagrams and pictures. WSC aircraft are typically  on wheels, but there are models that can land and take off on  water and snow.  [Figure 1-15]  The FAA is empowered by the United States Congress to  promote aviation safety by prescribing safety standards for  civil aviation programs and pilots. Title 14 of the Code of  Federal Regulations (14 CFR), formerly referred to as Federal  Aviation Regulations (FAR), is one of the primary means of  conveying these safety standards.  [Figure 1-16]  14 CFR part  61 specifies the requirements to earn a pilot certifi cate and  obtain additional WSC privileges if already a pilot. 14 CFR  part 91 is General Operating and Flight Rules for pilots. The  Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) provides basic fl ight  information and operation procedures for pilots to operate in  the National Airspace System (NAS). A WSC LSA must meet the following requirements: Figure 1-16. Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) and Aeronautical  Information Manual (AIM). Figure 1-15. WSC aircraft with struts similar to those on an airplane  (top) and WSC aircraft operating on water (bottom). 1-8