Microlights provide a brilliant alternative to areoplanes or helicopters. The main advantages with microlights is cost, they are far more affordable to the average person and brings aviation closer to the rest of us.
What are Microlights
Microlights are like powered hang gliders. The standard microlights can do up to 70mph and have a range of up to 100 miles.
There are two types of microlights, the type that looks like a hang glider with a motor on the back. Then theres the type that is a small version of a light aircraft. The second type can do up to 150mph compared with the standard 70mph.
Why Microlights
Microlights are easier to learn than conventional aircraft, they are cheap, affordable and offer the flexibility of operating from small grass strips.
Microlighting offers great views in an open cockpit sailing through the clouds with the wind blowing in your face. They are simple to fly and are definitely worth considering.
Are Microlights safe
This is a common concern among those seriously considering microlights.
Microlights may look flimsy but be rest assured they have an execellent safety record. Training standards are high and there are strict requirements governing their airworthiness.
Microlights are designed to be light and make execllent gliders. So in the event of an engine failure you are still very safe in a microlight.
The licence
To fly microlights you will require a National Private Pilots License (NPPL) with a microlight rating.
Training must consist of a minimum of 25 hous of flying as well as ground exams.
The ground exams consist of multiple choice papers made up of the following units:
- Air Law
- Navigation
- Meteorology
- Human Factors
- Principles of Flight
How much will it Cost
Microlights have become popular because they allow you the freedom of the skies at a much cheaper price.
You should expect to pay around £90 for a full hour of training in a microlight, this will normally include an extra hour of breifings and debreifings at most UK schools. Hence you may get 2 hours in total.
£2500 is a realistic price to obtain a full licence based on 25 hours of training. Most clubs will offer a discount if you pay the total training fee at the beginning of the course.
Further Information
See the British Microlight Association website ( www.bmaa.com ) for more information including a list of schools.
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