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What is a Microlight aircraft ?
  A Microlight aircraft is a category of aeroplane which by definition

• Has a maximum take off weight not exceeding 450 kg
   
• Has either; a wing loading not exceeding 25kg per sq M, or a stalling speed not more than 65Kph (41Mph)
   
• Unrestricted fuel capacity - within the constraints of maximum weight and balance
   
• Can carry a maximum of two persons
   

The advantages of Microlights over conventional aircraft are many and include...

Aircraft prices tend to be considerably less
The cost of learning to fly is less
They can be flown safely from small fields
Maintenance is relatively simple and can be done by the owner making running costs more affordable
They can be flown safely from suitable smaller fields and unlicensed airfields
Flying from an open cockpit can be a more exhilarating means of flying

Flex Wing

The flex wing ( also known as a weight shift or trike ) has a wing reminiscent of a hang-glider with a trike unit containing the engine, seats and landing gear suspended below. Flex wings are the most popular kind of Microlight. They are at the lower end of the price scale, but can produce some of the most exhilarating flying.  All flex wings are open cockpit.

Fixed Wing

The fixed wing ( also known as a three axis) Microlight resembles a conventional light aeroplane in both looks and control systems. They tend to be more expensive, but are not as weather restricted and have the option of closed cockpit. Also a licence gained on a fixed wing Microlight can be cross credited towards the grant of other aviation licences.

Training

A licence is required, titled - NPPL Microlight Licence and can be gained by training with a qualified flying instructor in accordance with a CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) syllabus of training. The minimum requirements are

• 25 hours total flying time to include
• 10 hours solo consolidation including two qualifying cross country flights of 40 nautical miles

You will need to pass a General flying test and an oral exam, which is much akin to a driving test. In addition to this you will need to pass 5 multiple choice exams in the following subjects

• Principles of flight
• Air law
• Navigation
• Meteorology
• Human factors

This may all sound a little onerous but in practice it is fascinating and good fun. A Microlight licence is simpler than a conventional aircraft licence and can be gained in approximately 2/3 the flying time and 1/2 the cost. Don‘t be frightened of the exams either, although thorough they are easily and enjoyably learnt and our 100% pass rate serves to prove this point.

** Follow this link to a summary of the NPPL (Microlight) course **