SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sport-wsc-xc-50

How long must the solo cross-country flight be for a weight-shift-control sport pilot certificate?

At least 50 nautical miles.

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  1. 50 nautical miles ✔
  2. 75 nautical miles
  3. 25 nautical miles

Why: Weight-shift-control candidates need one solo cross-country flight of at least 50 nautical miles. Airplane candidates need 75. Both need 20 hours of flight time with 15 dual and 5 solo.

Huh, didn't know that: Gyroplane and helicopter sport pilot candidates also need a 50 nautical mile solo cross-country.

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Why did the trike pilot lean left? He was just shifting his weight to the next idea.
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References

Answer: 50 nautical miles. Weight-shift-control candidates need one solo cross-country flight of at least 50 nautical miles. Airplane candidates need 75. Both need 20 hours of flight time with 15 dual and 5 solo.

  1. 14 CFR 61.313, Sport pilot aeronautical experience (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/api/renderer/v1/content/enhanced/current/title-14?part=61&section=61.313
    Weight-shift-control aircraft category land or sea class privileges, 20 hours of flight time
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. 14 CFR 61.313, Sport pilot aeronautical experience (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/api/renderer/v1/content/enhanced/current/title-14?part=61&section=61.313
    One solo cross-country flight of at least 50 nautical miles total distance
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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