I think Marc is going down the right road here.

I worked for a company that rented a 747-200 to a major engine manufacturer
for a series of experimental flight tests. The 747-200 was placed in
experimental category for 6 days, then returned to Standard.

It was not illegal - and it was very profitable. Note that we did not carry
persons or cargo for compensation or hire. We rented it to these guys and
they flew it for a while, had some fun tinkering with it - but I doubt they
did any thermaling with it.

I think it would be a problem is you tried to sell rides in an experimental
aircraft - but I thought I saw the EAA occasionally using an RV-6 for their
fly a million kids program - non-profit type of deal set up by clever EAA
guys I'm sure.

Jim

"Marc Ramsey" wrote in message
. com...
Nyal Williams wrote:
No, demo is fine, but renting out an experimental
is illegal.

=======
Section 91.319: Aircraft having experimental certificates: Operating
limitations.
(a) No person may operate an aircraft that has an experimental
certificate --
(1) For other than the purpose for which the certificate was issued; or
(2) Carrying persons or property for compensation or hire.
=======

(1) may be a problem given the precise wording of the ops lims, however,
I don't accept the interpretation that renting an aircraft is "carrying
persons or property for compensation or hire". Can you cite a section
or directive that proves (2) applies to the situation?

Marc