ELSA or LSA E-AB?

[jnmeade]

I'm interested in your opinion on the pros and cons of an ELSA vs an E-AB built to LSA compliant standards.
My only caveat is they both have to support flight under Sport Pilot privileges, that is, they must be LSA compliant. Otherwise, assume no constraints in your considerations.
I do not presume one is right and one is wrong, the objective is to enable a comparison. No doubt, each of us will come to his/her own conclusion.
The discussion will help me decide whether one system or the other is better for my next LSA compliant project.
Thanks.

[Mel]

ELSA = 5 hour minimum phase I-------------------------------EAB = 40 hour minimum phase I

ELSA must be built exactly per plans---------------------------EAB--not

ELSA requires 16 hr class for repairman certificate------------EAB requires application only.

ELSA--subsequent owners eligible for repairman certificate---EAB--not.

EAB may be modified outside of LSA parameters---------------ELSA may be modified after initial certification but not outside LSA parameters.

[Bill_H]

EAB forbids professional (?) help in construction - ELSA does not.

EAB requires 51% documentation - ELSA does not. (Normally not an issue...)

[Mel]

Originally Posted by Bill_H

EAB forbids professional (?) help in construction - ELSA does not.
EAB requires 51% documentation - ELSA does not. (Normally not an issue...)

You MAY receive professional assistant on EAB as long as the amateur-built portion maintains 51%.