registration

[Matthew Roung]

My brother and I just purchased a Titan Tornado. It was built and registered as an amatuer built. As it fits the definition as an ultralight, I can fly it. What I would like to know: Do we register it as amatuer built or re-register (if possible) as basic u/l? I know as it is now, one can fly w/o helmets (I will be wearing one regardless) and, with the appropriate license, take a passenger. Are there any other advantages/disadvantages ?
-Matt

[Trev Page]

Matt, I'd leave the plane as amateur built. The reasons are that going into a basic ultralight will limit the resale potential since passengers are not allowed.

If the plane legally fits the UL definition then you're all set and the plane will retain a better resale value. There are no advantages to putting into the ultralight category since the inspection has already been done which is the biggest hurdle for some builders.

[Yvan]

Agreed. If left as an amateur built, you can still fly it with a UL license so long as it meets the definition of a basic UL. I can't think of any advantages to re-registering it. Cheaper insurance maybe?