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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sport-103-safety-device-weight

Which items are excluded from the 254 pound empty weight limit of a powered ultralight?

Floats and safety devices meant for deployment in an emergency.

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  1. Fuel and oil
  2. Floats and deployable safety devices ✔
  3. The engine and propeller

Why: Part 103's weight test excludes floats and safety devices intended for deployment in a potentially catastrophic situation, such as a rescue parachute. Engines and props still count.

Huh, didn't know that: Because floats are excluded, a float-equipped ultralight does not lose its Part 103 status just for the floats.

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A backup is always necessary when jumping from a plane. That's why they call them pairs of chutes!
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References

Answer: Floats and deployable safety devices. Part 103's weight test excludes floats and safety devices intended for deployment in a potentially catastrophic situation, such as a rescue parachute. Engines and props still count.

  1. 14 CFR Part 103, Ultralight Vehicles (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/api/renderer/v1/content/enhanced/current/title-14?part=103
    Weighs less than 254 pounds empty weight, excluding floats and safety devices which are intended for deployment in a potentially catastrophic situation;
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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