Does anyone here know if / what-section-of FAR rules govern the operation of
"ground effect" vehicles? Specifically, how high can a machine fly AGL
before
its technically classified as an aircraft and not a hovercraft,
hydroplane-boat, Ecronoplan, etc.? Is there a loophole for a powered
airplane
that can't climb to more than 5' AGL?

Second question: If a machine has tricycle gear with nosewheel steering,
wings
and 3-axis control, and is solely propelled by thrust from an
engine/propeller,
BUT CANNOT FLY, how is it classified? Trike motorcycle?

NOTE: Both of these questions relate to a proposed machine that will weigh
more than 254lbs dry, i.e. not Part 103 legal.

Serious responses please. I'm looking to find and verify a specific FAR
rule,
as the correct answer to this question is critical for legal, operational,
and
insurance purposes.

Thanks,
Harry Frey
Wright Brothers Enterprises



Do an internet search on hovercrafts, WIG, Wing in Ground effect etc etc....

I dont remember the exact sites, but IIRC as long as it CANNOT get and stay out
of ground effect, ie KEEP gaining altitude...it AINT an aircraft...and it can
wiegh what ever you want....though its still a good idea to keep it
light.....(though high hops that utilize the vehicles kinetic engery, trading
off temporary altitude for speed are allowed)....its considered an ocean going
vessel and you actually have/should register it with the coast guard....and if
you do you'll probably be one of only a handful of people on the planet that
has such a registration.....

Now if you fly it over land I have no idea who you talk too....but besides
Groom lake i dont have a clue where youd fly such a thing over land....

here is one site I happen to have:

http://www.se-technology.com/wig/index.php

take care

Blll