Ultralight Airplanes - Introduction To Ultralight Aviation

Light Sport Aircraft - The Poor Man's Chance to Soar

The reasons for their surging popularity are myriad, but one of the most compelling is the lower cost associated with owning and operating light sport aircraft. The cheapest new light sport aircraft cost around $40,000, opposed to the price tags of $150,000 and above attached to entry-level FAA-certified small aircraft.

But the affordability of light sport aircraft extends beyond their price tags. Learning to fly one of these small wonders will cost only 30 to 50% as much as being certified for a private pilot's license, and can be accomplished in half the time.

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Add to that the elimination of there required medical examination and certifications, and flying your own light sport aircraft will free you of thousands of dollars in expenses over the years! The cost for light sport aircraft flight training usually runs between $3000 and $3500. Mastering a powered parachute is less than $1000.

photo by DARRIN170

Pilots with light sport aircraft licenses are actually qualified to fly a wide number of aircraft. These include both factory-assembled and amateur-built fixed-wing models, powered parachutes, and gliders. The increased demand for all them means that light sport aircraft costs are being kept down by more efficient manufacturing procedures, which require less government oversight.

Have you felt the pinch from having to fly the commercial airlines with their fuel costs causing your ticket prices to balloon? A fuel-efficient LSA plane will average 20 MPG, outperforming many automobiles!

There's a final way to lower the costs of owning a light sport aircraft. You can qualify for the FAA's Light Sport Aircraft Repairman certificate, which has both Inspection and Maintenance rating. Having the Inspection certification will permit you to perform the required annual condition inspection on any experimental (kit or plans-built) light sport aircraft you own.

The Maintenance rating will let you to be paid to inspect and maintain any special (factory built) or light sport aircraft. These aircraft can be used for rentals and flight instruction, as well as for sport and recreation. A maintenance rating also covers experimental aircraft.

Being qualified to inspect and maintain your aircraft will save you significant amounts of money over its lifetime. You can receive an Inspection rating certification by successfully completing an FAA-approved sixteen hour course on your class of LSA.

The Maintenance rating certification offers separate courses for each LSA class, with the airplane course lasting 120 hours.

To qualify for either Repairman Certificate, you must:

Be a US citizen or permanent legal resident over the age of 18;

Be able to speak, read, write, and understand English; and

Have the skill necessary to determine the airworthiness of an LSA.

If the only thing that's been preventing your from taking to the skies has been your wallet, wait no more. Why not find the nearest light sport aircraft training center, start your engine, and see the world of aviation from an entirely new perspective?

Light Sport Aircraft - The Little Guy's Ticket to the Wild Blue Yonder

Their allowed gross takeoff weight is no more than 1320 pounds (many horses weigh more). You could buy eighty squadrons of the most expensive ($200,000.00) for the price of the most expensive ($16,000,000.00) horse ever sold at auction. Fixed wing light sport aircraft, in other words, are the common man's answer to the mythical flying horse Pegasus, and just as much fun to ride.

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Fixed wing light sport aircraft provide affordable, energy- efficient (as high as 20 MPG) air travel for a pilot and one passenger at speeds of up to 120 knots (138 mph). The FAA approved design and manufacturing standards for fixed wing light sport aircraft in 2004, and in the nearly five years since the number of people wanting to take to the air in these tiny machines has increased dramatically. Fixed wing light sport aircraft have opened the skies to thousands of would-be pilots who could never have afforded to buy or maintain larger planes.

photo by Observe The Banana

What can you expect from a fixed wing light sport aircraft?

Speeds which will get you to your destination two or three times as quickly as an automobile;

A comfortable pilot/passenger compartment;

An easily readable control panel which removes the nervousness which can accompany night flying; and

A proven safety record. That flying in general is far safer (over 25 times safer) than automobile travel has long been established. Many models of kit-built and manufactured fixed wing light sport aircraft are certified to meet (with proper maintenance) strict safety regulations in countries outside the US, including Australia, Great Britain, Germany, and France.

Many US-produced light sport aircraft comply with the FAA-approved ASTM International standards for structural integrity and flight safety. The Light Aircraft Manufacturing Association (LAMA), in fact, now has an audit program to guarantee consumers that new light-sport aircraft meet established ASTM International standards.

The demand for fixed wing light sport aircraft continues to surge. More and more people tired of the rising prices and decreasing convenience of flying with the established airlines have seen the wisdom of owning their own LSAs. In January of 2008, at the 4th annual Sport Aviation Expo in Florida, eleven new LSA models were introduced.

If you're someone who's always wanted, but could never afford, to own your own plane, your time has come. Why not join the thousands of recreational fliers who, thanks to light sport aircraft, have discovered for themselves the freedom of the wild blue yonder?

How To Become a Light Sport Aircraft Pilot

Have you dreamed for years of becoming a pilot? If so, you're in luck, because the soaring popularity of light sport aircraft means that your dream has been transformed from "pie-in-the sky" to "pilot (you)-in-the-sky!

Photo by .Dianna. at flickr

Qualifying for a light sport aircraft pilot's license will take you less than half the time of qualifying for a private pilot's license. Not only that, it will enable you to operate an aircraft you can actually afford to own! Some light sport aircraft models retail for not much more than a loaded SUV, and get better mileage (up to 20mpg.) They are allowed to reach speeds of 220 knots, or 138 MPH, and altitudes of no more than 10,000 feet.

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Being a light aircraft pilot means that you and a passenger can fly when you want, except at night, to any airports you want (if your license has additional privileges), bringing along one passenger. You'll no longer be limited to the seldom-met schedules and inconvenient routes of the commercial airlines. You can skip those long lines at the airport security checkpoints, and as long as your plane's gross takeoff weight doesn't exceed 1320 pounds, you can carry as much luggage as you need!

What sort of training is involved in getting a light sport aircraft pilot's license?

You must be at least 16 to begin training in any of the categories of light sport aircraft (excluding gliders, when you must be 14).

You must be at least 17 (16 in the case of gliders) before you can test for your light sport aircraft pilot's license.

In the US, you must have a current driver's license, which serves as your medical certification. You must also show that you are in good overall health and not using any medications which could impair your ability to pilot the aircraft.

You must (in the US) be able to speak, read, understand, and write English. While US citizenship is not required, your FAA flight certification will be invalid in any other country.

You'll need a student pilot's license, available at no charge from any FAA Flight Standards District Office.

You may qualify to take the light sport aircraft pilot certification exam with as little as twenty hours (fifteen with an instructor and five as a solo pilot) of flight time.

You'll have to pass both a written and practical test.

How much will qualifying as a light sport aircraft pilot cost?

Expect to spend between $3000 and $3500 to qualify for your light sport aircraft pilot's license, which is about half of what a private pilot's license would set you back.

Finally, every hour you spent piloting a light sport aircraft can be applied to future training for a private pilot's license if you decide to move on to a larger aircraft. So why not get your head out of the clouds and become a light sport aircraft pilot?

Where To Find Ultralight Aircraft Plans

Many aviators come to this site searching for ultralight aircraft plans, helicopter plans and free ultralight plans. We don't create or sell plans ourselves, but I have done a lot of research for you to help you find the plans you are looking for.

If you are an engineer or a company which creates ultralight aircraft plans and want to sell them on this site contact us to discuss this opportunity.

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If you want to build ultralight airplanes yourself, you'll need to buy such plans.

Ultralight Aircraft Plans

When searching the Web for ultralight airplane plans you'll unfortunately find a lot of outdated websites or sites with questionable quality. Fortunately there are several reputable companies and web stores where you can find paper plans or plans for instant download:

The Homebuilt Homepage has a long list of vendors of ultralight airplanes. Unfortunately the site doesn't sell plans directly, but their alphabetical list is big and contains the websites of the vendors where you can inquiry about plans. Some of the companies sell only ultralight kits however.

Photo by vnvlain at Flickr

eBay is probably the next place you should visit. You are unlikely to land there after searching for plans in Google, so just go there and use eBay's own search. When I visited today there were 3-4 auctions available offering ultralight plans at very affordable prices.

The plans for the famous Affordaplane can be bought directly from its website for $25.

Another place to look are the aircraft classifieds directories. You can find some of the best ones in our resource center.

In general it seems to be best if you first decide what ultralight airplane you want to build and then to search the Web, eBay and the classified sites for "model name + plans".

Helicopter Plans

If finding good plans for airplanes is hard, then to find ultralight helicopter plans is pathetic. There is no general store where you can go and pick between many models. Instead you'll have to visit many sites each of them offering plans for one model only.

One interesting ultralight helicopter can be found at Plans Delivery, another popular one is the G-1 Homebuilt Helicopter and there are maybe just a few more.

I can recommend you reading our article how to obtain ultralight helicopter kits and plans if you really want to find helicopter plans.

Free Ultralight Plans

I would not build an ultralight aircraft with free plans. Building your homebuilt experimental airplane is a big and serious project - don't try to do it with free plans. Just my 2 cents. Such plans (if you have the luck to find any at all!) can be of low quality or pretty vague. Working with them can cost you a lot more time and money than you would save.

I searched badly anyway so I could offer you at least 2-3 good free ultralight plans, but unfortunately most links were gone. You see, even searching for free plans online is a waste of time that could nuke the saving effect of not paying for the plans.

Finally, when you choose ultralight aircraft plans to buy, always do a quick research for the model and the company name. Usually you will find first-hand experience of people who have used the plans which can be very useful for your final decision.

Personal Hovercraft - Swim, Drive And Fly Over The Ground

What I am going to introduce to you now is not exactly an aircraft. It won't let you soar above the mountains. Hovercrafts are not airplanes. But still many ultralight aviation fans are interested in having their personal hovercraft. There are few reasons for that:

The enjoyment of driving a hovercraft over grass, water or snow is quite similar to flying an ultralight airplane

Hovercrafts are safer than aircfats

Hovercrafts are easier to maintnain

They don't need airports and runaways

You don't need a license to drive a hovercraft

These are pretty strong arguments in favor of the hovercrafts. The topic worths further exploring.

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So, What Is a Hovercraft And Personal Hovercraft?

The hovercrafts are amphibious vehicles supported on a cushion of high pressure air. In fact the hovercrafts fly on this thin cushion over the land or water, but unlike the aircrafts they need a flat surface very near under them.

The personal hovercrafts are small crafts usualy handling up to 10 passengers, but most often they are made for just 2 or 4 persons. One typical small hovercraft would look very simple to a flying boat or float except the wing.
The construction and way of flying of course are very different.

The Famous HovPod

This great vehicle can be used on water, grass, snow, road and other flat surfaces. You can even see people with personal hovercrafts climbing on mountains.

Where To Find A Hovercraft

If you intend to buy a personal hovercraft, I can recommend you to have a look at The HovPod. You can even get additional information on email if you fill this form.

There are hundreds of others manufacturers of personal hovercrafts which you can find thru the search engines and on other web sites.

The personal hovercrafts can be as small as your car or even smaller, and, you guessed right, you can keep it in your garage.

Hovercraft Kits And Building It Yourself

Many hobbyists build hovercrafts themselves or use hovercraft kits. Building a hovercraft is easier than building an ultralight airplane because there are less things to care about - like aerodynamics - and the hovercraft kits have less details.

Some enthusiasts build their hovercrafts from scratch, just purchasing plans online for $100 - $150.

In general owning a hovercraft is more affordable than owning an ultralight airplane - not so much because of the price itself, but because you don't have to pay licensee and education fees neither you have to pay for hangar. The hovercrafts do not impose such high requirement to your health and learning to drive them does not take so much of your time.

Of course nothing can really replace the enjoyment of flying an ultralight airplane :) But the hovercraft is a great option if you are just looking to have some great fun without too much of a hassle.

Aviation Modeling

Do you want to fly tens or airplanes and helicopters? Too bad, even with the cheapest ultralights this is not affordable at least for most of us. But we like so many of them, it's hard to decide which one you want when the time for buying come.

One way to have a closer look at different kind of aircraft and to experience some of the enjoyment which the different planes can give you is through aviation modeling. Of course nothing can be compared to real flying, but modeling and flying models are excellent way to expand your knowledge about aircraft and aviation in general. Many aviation fans start collecting models as a first step on their way to flying, others do it after they have already flown on real ultralight aircraft.

Building model airplanes is a good training step to building real ultralights. No, don't expect to use the same tools or skills, neither that the same physics apply. But building models will train your patience and dexterity and will get you know better the main principles of aviation.

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For the reasons about we created a sister site to this one which caters to Aviation Modeling. Visit it to find out a lot of articles and advice about model airplanes and helicopters.

If you know nothing about model aircraft read the introduction to model aviation to get a better idea about this hobby.

In the general model aircrafts category you will find articles about the types of model aircraft and further reading.

If you are interested in remote control airplanes, the RC aircraft articles will help you know how to choose, fly or build such models.

A great place for beginner builders are the paper airplanes, so we have an article for it too.

If you already have experience with model aircraft and have built some, let us know. We will be more than happy to write about it and show your model to the others if you wish.

Real Stories And Advice From Ultralight Helicopter Builders

This article is Part Three of a series about Building an Ultralight Helicopter. You may want to read Part One and Part Two first.

If you are embarrassed and need to quicken your spirit, you need the positive story of someone who has already experienced the process of building his own ultralight helicopter.

There are many places where you can look for real stories of people who made in addition pictures of the different stages of building. Look at this site, for example, where the successful stories are related with the building of Mosquito heli.

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Here it is the story of the Australian enthusiast Rob Hall. He built his own ultralight helicopter saying: �Take all the time you need for a perfect work. Think first, than cut or glue. And have a fun, this is the most important.� Some of the suggestions he gave to the others are related with details of the work like:

Use a mask when you paint the details. It is not a problem for your face (you can live with blue beard), but for your lungs.

Buy a pneumatic riveter � you will be happy with the result. You will need powerful senders as all.

Be careful with silicones, some of them cannot be used on fuel systems as the engine will stop.

I have used bolts instead of rivets (which were supplied with the kit) to mount the bow clamps of the front undercarriage. I needed this change, as the heli was too tall to go out from my workshop.

For some of the parts you need long extension with special holder to drill.

I will recommend you "The Glassfiber Handbook", which is used by our local craft repair station (ISBN 0 85242 820 0). It will be very useful for everyone who dedicates your time to metal planes and helicopters.

Jimmy Stuart from USA gives another suggestion: �I am a pilot, and I have tried several aircrafts. The helicopter has a lot of advantages compared to planes, but the most important is that you can take off and lend almost everywhere � starting from your own garden�� Some of Jimmy�s suggestions concerning the process of building are listed below:

The first moment of opening the parcel with the kit is quite stressful. The first impression is that this is a real mess of pieces and bits. The best think you can do is to sit down and relax.

Place the building planes on a visible spot, so as they to be all the time in front of your eyes. I have used the wall � the planes looked like a map of the world (within these months my helicopter was really my world).

One of the big problems is where to start from. I would suggest you to start with the big pieces and go down step by step to the smallest bits.

Do not be in a hurry: if you don�t sleep at all, you will probably build your ultralight helicopter in 21 days. But I am sure you are doing this not for a record, but just for a pleasure. I spent 3 and a half months building my bird.

Good advise you may receive as well from Andrea Kianti from Italy: �I have no experience at all, but I was dreaming of my own helicopter. I went to a metal factory shop in the nearby town and ask them for training. I stayed a month there and we made a good deal with the owner: I didn�t pay anything for the training, and he didn�t pay anything for my work. It was � a car service station, but I learned many tricks from painting to finery. It helped me a lot! After this I turned the garage into a heli workshop. After 6 months I had the most beautiful helicopter you could ever seen��

Have you already build or tried to build an ultralight helicopter or other ultralight aircraft? Please share your story with us!

Building An Ultralight Helicopter - Preparation

This article is Part One of a series about Building an Ultralight Helicopter

People have always dreamed to fly. After the ultralight aircraft appeared many of the aviation enthusiasts have the possibility to experience regularly the enjoyment of flying on an ultralight helicopter. If you have felt the fun to fly on a helicopter and you would like to do it frequently, the ultralight version is the reasonable choice, which will not empty your wallet.

Photo by pmilg at flickr

What Is Ultralight Helicopter?

It is actually a skeleton of a traditional helicopter without the protection of the normal shell. It has two propellers: one on the top, which has a diameter from 3.5m to 7.5m, depending on the model, and one on the tail, with a diameter between 0.6m and 1.2m. The average weight of an empty ultralight heli is between 65 and 85 kg. The weight of the pilot can be up to 125 kg. However, you will hardly find two ultralight helicopters that are similar as a construction and main characteristics.

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How To Get An ultralight Helicopter?

There are two main possibilities: to purchase a ready-made one or to build your own. Maybe you will be interested in the second option. There are quite a good number of models, which you can buy in a kit form. This means that you have to fit the pieces of your aircraft together before the first fly. However, it is necessary to know that besides the enthusiasm this is not a simple project.

Where To Start?

First answer the questions: What have you built till now? How big is your experience in reading construction plans and assembling pieces? What about the engines: do you have any idea about them?

If your experience is close to zero, the ultralight helicopter should probably be your second building project and you would start with something easier. But if you can rely on the help of someone experienced and your enthusiasm is so big� go ahead.

What To Buy?

There are many producers of ultralight helicopters, which offer different possibilities. The cheapest way to own a heli is to purchase only construction plans and to bring together all necessary parts of your aircraft by your own. This is the longest way and requires very good background in construction of machines and aircrafts. The average price of construction plans in reduced formats is $90 to $200. The plans of the ultralight helicopter G-1 cost only $32.95. An instruction manual costs in addition $35. The same is the price of a video instruction. Usually the plans in large format have double price.

If you prefer not to to spend so much time you may look for already prepared ultralight helicopter kits, which are offered by all production companies. The prices vary from $2495 for the kit of the famous Mosquito, to $15995 for a complete kit of Kestrel Jet Helicopter. You can find in between several prices for the different parts of the helies: airframe with tail section, main control hub, rotor head, engines, etc.

Let me give an example with the well-known Adams-Wilson ultralight helicopter called Choppy. It is a single-seat heli, the most famous among the homebuilt aircrafts. If you buy the complete kit you have to spend $22,995. However, if you decide to purchase separate parts you should know that the airframe of the Choppy is $3495, the same is the price of the rotor head and the price of the main control hub is $2495. The experimental version of the Choppy (with gearbox instead of a cog-belt drive system and different engine) costs almost $30000. All Choppy kits include a cockpit as well.

(You continue reading more about the ultralight helicopter kits and plans.)

What else you need to build your helicopter?

Most of the kits are prepared so as to be built with ordinary tools and minimum additional costs at home. You don�t need special workshop, but the most frequently working tools are required.

The rest is time and enthusiasm. Keep your enthusiasm as long as possible, as you will need plenty of it until you reach the first fly with your own ultralight helicopter.

So, are you ready? See what is needed to start action.

Building An Ultralight Helicopter - Start Action

This article is Part Two of a series about Building an Ultralight Helicopter. To read Part One click here.

The idea to build an ultralight helicopter on your own is very challenging, but you should approach it judiciously. The reason is that this decision will cost you money and time (which is again money).

You have probably made a search on the web for producers of ultralight helicopters and helicopter kits in order to find out the best quality, the best price or just the heli which fits best to your dreams. Before making the final step towards ordering a plan, different pieces or a complete kit, look at the following checklist, which will help you to make better decision.

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Self-confidence

Do you have it enough? Many people decide to built their own aircraft, but they do not believe in their technical skills and knowledge. What is worse, some of them give up after paying good amount of money for a kit. The companies, producing the plans and the kits have very good instruction manuals and videos to help you. If you are ready to learn and to acquire new skills, you need just a little training and time to practice in order to build your ultralight helicopter.

Photo by misterbisson at flickr

Basic knowledge

Purchasing the helicopter kit with detailed manuals and plans makes your life overlgenerally easy. However, you need to be well versed in some subjects like comprehension and reading of instructions and plans as well as organizing and planning of the tasks to be performed.

You will need as well basic skills in working with metal, like: measuring and cutting of required lengths, drilling and countersinking of holes, work with aluminum (sheets and tubes), bending of aluminum pieces, smoothing of holes and edges, gluing of metal parts, etc. You have to be good enough in fitting the components together, assembling different pieces, welding (required for the exhaust system), connection and testing of the electrical systems, setting the engine and the particular fuel system.

Timing

Unfortunately you cannot build your ultralight helicopter in one day. You will need at least several weeks, up to 6 months, depending on the time you can spend and the skills you have. Before purchasing the kit think about the following aspects of your future work:

How many hours you can spend per week? Make a detailed schedule of your ordinary duties and reasonably assess the time you can devote your attention to the helicopter building. You may plan couple of hours working every day or every second day during the week and one full day during the weekend. Do not make your schedule too squeezed, as you will soon be disappointed. Make it reasonable and try to follow it.

How many people you will involve in your work? Maybe you cannot weld and do not like to spend money for welding facilities, but you have a friend with welding skills? Ask him for help! Someone from the family is ready to help you every day? Give him the chance. Or you may invite your children during the non-working Sunday afternoon to perform a particular task for you, learning new skills? Good idea: you will have an additional working day and your half will enjoy free afternoon without family duties� However, be careful, sometimes the external help may slow down your progress.

The Design

Look carefully and select your helicopter design not only based on its price. You should like the model. Do not expect (if you are experienced enough) that you will change its design later . Do not do this! In any case you have to ask the producer of the kit, as there are construction reasons behind every detail.

The Help

There are several places where you can look for help and useful answers to your questions. First of all the companies which sells kits or plans supports forums and FAQ sections on their websites. Look at the sites of builders of ultralight aircrafts as well. What you should take into account in case of doubt is to ask before you have drilled or cut, in order to avoid a costly mistake.

Still hesitating? Read some success stories and advice from people who already built their ultralight helictoper.

How To Fly An Ultralight Aircraft Even When You Do Not Own Any

Photo by udannlin at Flickr

On this site we have published some articles showing how affordable owning an ultralight airplane is. Indeed this depends on where you live - but in general you can own an ultralight airplane at the price of a decent car.

Unfortunately not every one of us can afford even so much when it's just for a hobby and leisure. But this is not a reason to forfeith your dream of flying on an ultralight airplane. There are options for you to experience this wonderful activity even without owning an airplane.

Here are they:

Buying a share

This is a very popular option within the pilots of light airplanes and light sport aircrafts. Usually 3, 4 or 6 people buy one plane together and share not only the purchase price but the ongoing costs. This otion can drastically reduce the costs of owning an ultralight aircraft. Of course you won't really own all of it, but still will be able to fly frequently and enjoy it.

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Few things to consider:

You need reliable partners. You have to find pilots that will care about the airplane as good as you would care for it. They have to be serious people and to keep the agreement regarding the time of flying and the ongoing costs.

You need to find people near you. If you have to travel few thousands milles each time when you want to pick up your ultralight, you won't save any costs and will lose time. In such sense, if you are from UK or USA you have much better chances to find good partners, because these countries have traditions in sharing airplanes.

It's hard to agree on the exact airplane. Unfortunately it is not easy to find other people who want to buy exactly the ultralight or microlight that you want to buy. Some will want a Challenger, other will look for Colb Ultralight etc. You may have to make a compromise with the model and make

Participating in a club

There are various flying clubs where aviation enthusiasts go together, discuss, make competitions and fly. The clubs allow you to share airplanes with others, to attend cheaper training etc. In most clubs the members can also trade or rent airplanes to each other or from the club.

While talking about renting, let's see the next option:

Renting an ultralight airplane

What do people do when they can't afford buying a home? They rent one! Of course you can do the same with an airplane. But with the ultralights it's not that easy. Many owners would be fairly concerned about your pilot skills and the potential damages you could bring to their airplane and your health.

The best way to find an ultralight airplane for renting is to contact training companies and clubs and inquiry them. Some may refuse you, but some won't mind. Typically the flying schools will allow you to rent an airplane for $75 - $125 per hour. It's pretty expensive indeed!

If you plan to fly more often, you can consider membership in some club or company. For example Ultralight Adventures will let you use their airplane for only $35 per hour if you pay $100 monthly fee.

Paying for a piloted flight

This option is good if you don't even own a pilot license. Many companies offer piloted ultralight flights for amateurs. The flights are usually short, 20-30 minutes or so and start from $70 - $80. That's not cheap either, but it gives you the oportunity to experience your dream for less than $100 - even if only once.

If you are not from UK or USA, it may be harder to find such companies, but recently they started popping up even in much smaller countries with less aviation traditions. (For example here in Bulgaria you can purchase a 15 minutes ultralight flight as a gift to someone).

Attending pilot's education

This is a way to combine the pleasure with a practical use. If you dream of owning an ultralight airplane, why not start with the education? The pilot education is not cheap at all (see more details here), but will give you enough hours of guided and even solo-flights.

Especially if you really plan to own an airplane sooner or later, it's much better to start with pilot training rather than spending money on paid flights. Of course this option is not useful for people who already can fly.

From all the options above, I would consider best buying a share if you are already a pilot. Renting is too expensive and is ok only if you want to fly very few times. Joining a club or company which gives their airplanes for lower price plus a fixed monthly fee is a good option too, but you should very well calculate the expenses depending on how often you plan to fly.

Whichever option you choose, you see it's possible to fly on an ultralight airplane even if you don't have much money. There are very few dreams that can be achieved for less than $100 and ultralight flying is one of them - even if done just for 30 minutes.

Light Sport Aircraft

In USA there is a category of ultralight airplanes called Light Sport Aircraft. If you are from Europe, Asia or Africa you may never need to deal with that term... unless you want to fly in USA of course.

Wikipedia says:

"The Federal Aviation Administration defines a light-sport aircraft as an aircraft with a maximum gross takeoff weight of less than 600 kilograms (1320 pounds) for aircraft designed to operate from land, 649 kilograms (1,430 pounds) for seaplanes; a maximum airspeed in level flight of 120 knots (222 km/h); a maximum stall speed of 45 knots (83 km/h); either one or two seats; fixed undercarriage and fixed-pitch or ground adjustable propeller; and a single reciprocating engine, which includes diesel engines and Wankel engines."

To operate a Light Sport Aircraft you need a Sport Pilot License, similar to the Ultralight/Microlight license in UK for example.

photo by Brad Pennock

Here are Some Examples of Popular Light Sport Aircrafts

If you still wonder how exactly the light sport aircrafts are different to the ultralights, the best is to have a look at some of the most popular models.

Cessna 162 Skycatcher is one of the most popular two-seat light sport aircrafts. Its price is around $100,000. You can find tons of information and other people who like this airplane at 162 Skycatcher Forum.

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Eurofox is lovely ultralight, licensed as LSA in USA, provided by Eurofox Corporation. Its price is about $50,000 - 70,000. A very cute and affordable light sport airplane.

Jabiru J250-SP is advertised as one of the of the largest and most comfortable light sport aircrafts in USA. Its base price is around $100,000. The company offers also other models, experimental ultralights and kits.

At this point you probably have gotten the picture - LSA can be considered a sub-category of the ultralight airplanes. There isn't bid difference at the end.

Some Useful Resources About Light Sport Aircraft

Ultralight Flying Magazine hosts an informative small site about LSA. You'll find answers to most of the questions you ever had.

If you are interested in getting a sport pilot license, AOPA Online knows everything about Regulatory and Certification Policy

Looking to buy a good LSA? Find A Plane and Controller.com have plenty of stuff.

And of course, Ultralight-Airplanes.info is always here to answer any other questions you may have about LSA.

Ultralight Flying

How and where to fly? Is it safe or dangerous? Is it getting more expensive with the rising fuel prices? What are the rules of flying in my country?

Read the articles here and find the answers. I can't promise to cover each country and state, but will do my best to help you know more about the ultralight flying.

How To Fly An Ultralight Aircraft Even When You Do Not Own Any

What Factors Rule The Performance Of Ultralight Airplanes?

You have to ascertain that you have good flying conditions and your aircraft is in good operating condition before setting out on your flight. The performance of your ultralight aircraft is affected by multitude of environmental factors. Atmospheric Density One of the major factors that impact on performance is atmospheric density. Atmospheric... Continue >>

Ultralight Aircrafts - As Safe As The Birds?

Ultralight Flying In USA

Aircraft School

Receiving good flight education is the key for your successful and safe ultralight flying. Selecting an aircraft school is complex process and the education costs a lot so spend enough time on this.

The articles on this page will help you not only choose a flying lessons provider, but also decide when to do it. You will also learn about the alternatives of attending an aircraft school.

How To Find Good Ultralight Flying Lessons For Helicopters And Airplanes

Should You Attend An Aircraft School?

Your life and your safety are the most important things you have to consider when flying. No wonder that the safety is a major concern for many beginner pilots, but it's a pity that a lot of them don't even try because of that fear. The ultralight aviation is not unsafe... Continue >>

Microlight Airplane

The microlighting is a version of the ultralight aviation which generally is considered even lighter. A microlight aircraft is a term used widely in Europe and UK.

There are different opinions and definitions where is the border between the ultralight and the microlight airplanes, but this is not as important.

What really matters for you is that the microlight aircraft are giving you in general easier and cheaper way to fly. Here you will find information about all kind of weird and cool planes - experimental and home built, powered paragliders, delta planes and more. The microlight aviation is a really exciting venture!

How To Fly Easier With Flex Wing Ultralight Aircrafts (Ultralight Trikes)

When I first learned about the microlight airplanes, I was very excited. The idea to buy my own aircraft for less than $10,000 was really very tempting. But then I started thinking about the related expenses - hanger, airport taxes, support of the plane, license costs... And the things were... Continue >>

Touch The Sky With An Affordable Microlight Airplane

Almost everyone has seen and has flied with a standard light airplane or a helicopter. These vehicles are cool and fast - but when you fly you are enclosed in the cabine and can't feel the air. And sadly, if you want to own an airplane you need really big... Continue >>

How To Find Good Ultralight Flying Lessons For Helicopters And Airplanes

When it comes to the things that keep us from learning to fly you will see the ordinary suspects to show up. Not enough time, not enough money, inappropriate season, health issues... Most often the thing which really stops us is lack of information about what exactly to do.

To operate an ultralight aircraft in USA you need a license from Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). In other countries there are different regulations, but almost everywhere in the world you'll need a specific flying license. So here is the first answer you searched for.

So How To Obtain A Flying License

Depending on where you are localted and what kind of aircraft license you want to apply for, you will need to pass a medical examination with various strictness.

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Once approved, you need to receive the required hours of flying instruction given by a Certificated Flight Instructor.

At the end, you'll have to pass written and practical exams.

While the medical and the pilot exams will be held at place that you won't choose yourself, the flying instruction is something that you can fully control.

Find A Good Aircraft School

Should you wonder if going to flight school is a good idea, you may want to read the article about ultralight aircraft schools. You'll also find information about the pricings and the flight school alternatives.

If you have decided to go ahead, you should have in mind that locating a good flight school can be a challenge, especially if you live in a less populated area.

When choosing a flight school, take these factors into consideration:

The price of the education (of course)

How long are the instructors in business

What airplanes are offered for the students

How many students are there

Are the flying hours flexible to suit your schedule

Does the school have website? If so, do a search for sites linking into it to read comments and feedback

Is there a good insurance coverage?

Get The Most Of Your Flying Lessons

Your flying education does not stop with choosing a flight school. The entire process of selection has one main purpose - to help you get the most for your money and time.

When doing your lessons, try to absorb everything that the instructor says. If needed, write down small notes to refresh you mind later.

A good flight education package will include a short discovery flight. You will be introduced to the feeling of flying an ultralight airplane - try to compare this to flying a big aircraft.

Make sure that you learn well the following topics:

Aircraft systems

Aerodynamics

Aircraft operations

Navigation

Regulations

Weather

When you finish the flying education and complete the exams, you must feel convenient in your flying skills. If you feel unsure, better attent additional hours with an instructor before going completely on your own. Your safety matters most.

Build Ultralight Airplane

One of the most exciting thing in the ultralight aviation is the fact you can build your airplane yourself. I know it sounds scary if you are a beginner. It scaried me as well.

But building your ultralight aircraft yourself does not require engineer knowledge (although it helps!), neither a big professional workshop.

There are many enthusiasts like you and me who build their aircrafts themselves with the help of construction plans or aircraft kits.

Read on, I'll show you how you can go ahead on this amazing, exciting and glorious route.

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Get Yourself Prepared!

Are you ready or not so sure? Begin with understanding of what you want to do and how you want to go about it. Most people build the ultralight aircraft they have been already flying. It is something they are familiar with and have a fair understanding of the different... Continue >>

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Using Construction Plans

Using The A10 D Aircraft Kit To Build Your Own Ultralight Airplane

The Glorious Aircraft Building Journey Of Alan and Dale Klapmeier

Every one of us has dreams. Very few have the persistence required to make them realities. Most of us give up if we are faced with problems or someone points out to us how divorced from reality our dreams are. The world would not have airplanes if the Wright brothers had not tried to translate their dreams of flying into a reality!

The story of Dale and Alan Klapmeier is a saga of dreams that became realities. What began as an indulgence in a fancy became the mainstay of their lives!

The Brothers Were Fascinates By Ultralight Airplanes

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The brothers were fascinated by airplanes as children. They loved to play with toy versions of planes and dreamed of building a plane themselves. Alan Klapmeier is often heard to say �You have to be dumb enough to start and smart enough to finish�. They plunged into airplane design naively with a Glasair kit aircraft in early 1980�s and stayed on despite difficulties to build and market the VK-30 in 1984 and found �Cirrus�--the company that manufactures the plane. Today the airplane designed and manufactured by them is FAA certified, composite, four place, single engine piston and turbo powered aircraft.

The Beginning

The first thoughts of building a real ultralight aircraft entered the minds of the brothers when Alan turned 15. The December 1973 issue of Flying Magazine showed a piper warrior on the cover and he was to give a speech at school on aviation. Inspired by the article and another on Skyhawk the Grumman Traveler and his own fascination with building and modeling toy planes, prompted him to excitedly approach his dad with a spontaneous � Let�s build an airplane!� only to be greeted by a laughing rejoinder �My kids are all insane!�

Re-building their first airplane

However, the thoughts took root and grew and they brought their first wrecked 7 GC airplane in 1979 with an intention of rebuilding it. They began work with an optimistic idea of completing the rebuilding in four months and ended up working on it for two and a half years! However, the learning was great and the brothers gained confidence in their ability to build airplanes.

Building their ultralight airplane from scratch

In 1980 they decided to further their understanding by building a plane from the scratch. They brought a Glasair kit form Stoddard-Hamilton and began work on it in 1981. The aircraft was a two place, side-by-side composite taildragger. They began putting it together in the garage and finished the job in the farm�s barn. They flew their first home built airplane in the Spring of 1984.

In that year they began the design of VK-30. The rest is history. The journey from the barn to the hanger and the hanger to owning a manufacturing company was a hard one. It was their dreams and their determination to realize their dreams which led them on to the success they enjoy today. It is a story of hardship willingly borne and a commitment unwaveringly pursued.

You too, could be a Dale or Alan Klapmeier! The first ultralight aircract you can build with a kit or plans could be the learning ground for bigger things to come. So why dismiss dreams as mere castles in the air. Begin by laying strong foundations. Build your first aircraft with the grit an determination of an Alan or a Dale.

What Factors Rule The Performance Of Ultralight Airplanes?

Atmospheric Density

One of the major factors that impact on performance is atmospheric density. Atmospheric density reduces with height and this affects the lift generation and the angle of attack. The concept of establishing a safe aircraft flight envelope within the critical range for best performance airspeeds emerges from this fact. This is the range within which the aircraft can be safely operated by an average pilot at varying density altitudes, airframe states, power outputs, wing loading and atmospheric turbulence.

ASI Position Error

The pilot also needs to know the ASI position error on his ultralight. The static vent is an opening connected to the cockpit via a tube and supplies ambient atmospheric pressure to the pressure sensing instruments. At specific altitudes disturbances can result in a position error. The ASI may under read by 10 knots at stalling.

If there is a sideslip the fuselage mounted static vent may experience dynamic pressure and the ASI and VSI readings may be erroneous. Consequently position error corrections for instruments should be noted and corrected in the Pilots Operating Handbook and placed in a placard on the instrument panel for ready reference. Before take off, the pilot should also check validity of claimed stall speeds and the type of wings used for evaluating performance.

Other Factors

Ultralights and microlights apply the same principles of flying as other aircraft. If speed is reduced the aircraft becomes less efficient. The elevator will normally deflect more downwards than upwards and this has to be taken advantage of, to have better elevator control at low speed (especially during descent or stall). However, the downwards deflection can be a hazard if the nose wheel has to hit the ground while one flares a little high and allows the speed to bleed off. Many microlights have stall speeds of 35Kt mark approximately and the elevator loses the ability to raise the nose at 40-45 Kt. This can have an impact on the calculation of approach speed.

Ultralights like microlights have high drag at low speed. Therefore a slightly higher approach speed is recommended to ensure that you won't have problems. These airplanes also have very little inertia. If the throttle is closed at 4 or 5 feet then, the aircraft will slow down rapidly and fall down to the ground. In cross winds the low inertia makes the crab technique difficult and the wing technique will have to be used. Sufficient bank should be used to keep the aircraft centerline and the nose pointing down the runway. However, you will find that there is not enough rudder to do so and the crosswing is too much. It would be better to keep power on till the aircraft hits the ground in a strong wind.

In short, you need to know his aircraft well and must be aware of its specific characteristics if you want the best performance out of it.

Using The A10 D Aircraft Kit To Build Your Own Ultralight Airplane

If you have dreamed of flying your own aircraft but have shelved the thought for want of funds, it would be a good idea to revive your dreams and have a look at the variety of aircraft building kits that are available at nominal prices in the market. Maybe there is some little aircraft out there waiting to be your own.

One of the best affordable ultralights you can build is the A-10D airplane. It has a cruise speed of 60 mph; a range of 300 nm; seats one and it takes about 100 hours for a beginner to build.

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So which A10 are we talking about? All A10s are essentially the same. The D models may differ because of the fiberglass pod or podsterior and fiber glass trim pieces. The D models also have an electric start which is not present on the B and so on. These are only cosmetic differences between the airplanes. The innards of the plane are the same.

What's In The Kit?

The kit will have the inboard wing, the two outboard wings, two rudders, two stabilators in a semi-assembled condition. It will also contain the tubes for the cage assembly. These tubes will be predrilled or pre-bent and all that needs to be done is to put them together with the instruction manual or video that comes with the box. Of course the kit will also contain the wheels, axles, brakes, instruments and everything that your plane needs. However, you will need to equip yourself with the rivets and you will have to familiarize yourself with the assembly process by watching the video or reading the manual several times.

Assembling The Kit

First Steps:

To reiterate, you will have to watch the video several times and read the manual again and again till you are familiar with the steps. When you feel confident that you know the process, spend some time looking at the different parts in the box and figuring out how they fit into each other. This is not very different from assembling Lego pieces that entertained our childhood. Take your time about this, as it will make your job easier and more fun as you go along.

Next Steps

Fit the wings together. There is a rudder hinge assembly that is attached to the outboard wings and that is where the process begins. Now position the wheels under the completed wing. Assemble the cage as per instructions with all the bolts loose so that you can fit them to your wing without stress. Now tighten the wing attach points, then move on to tightening the bolts on the first part of the cage.

Now pause awhile and study what the engine mount looks like. The supports will be designed to mount the engine you want to use with your plane. The engine will be tucked into the mount and occupy very little space. However, it is important to understand that weight and balance can make a lot of difference to the feel of your aircraft after assembly. So it may be a good idea to watch the video once more at this point or refer to the manual before proceeding.

Now you can go ahead and install the wheels, brake assemblies, seat, fiberglass pod, instruments and other parts of your plane.

The process is so simple that you will have fun doing it. Of course it will be a lot of hard work but the creative in you can be unleashed without fear. You will have an A10 ultralight airplane that you can be proud of!

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Using Construction Plans

The ultralight aircraft construction plans are designed to provide the newbie and the professional builder with everything he needs to build a small plane on his own. Each package would contain complete step by step instructions on the art of ultralight aircraft building and all the parts required to execute the project from the scratch--Photos, CAD drawings, full size fittings drawings, a materials list, informative articles, the instruction manual. And of course the details of the parts of the plane you are going to assemble and the source from which you can purchase them. Some plan kits offer construction videos and have websites where the enthusiast can register and access their storehouse of information.

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The Affordaplane Construction Plans

The Affordaplane is one of the most popular ultralights available in form of construction plans. Each plan sold by this company has a registered serial number. It contains around 49 CAD drawings of the aircraft and each part is laid out in a large legal size paper in three views. There are drawings which show the user how the parts of the plane fit together and what materials have been used to an advantage. Full size drawings which come with this package are very convenient as there is no scaling up operations to be performed before implementation.

The 60 page builders manual provides easy to read step by step instructions with a lot of �how to� information that are great time and cost savers. The lists of materials that come with this plan also give details of suppliers in different locations. A bonus article from well known aviation experts is included. Affordaplane also provides its members access to its exclusive online builders section. This section is content rich and members can access information on a variety of aircraft related topics, tips and free updates on products of the company.

The Fighter Ultralight E-plans

The Fighter Ultralight e-plans provide aircraft building enthusiasts for a small sum of $24.95 with detailed instructions on how to build a simple fighter ultralight. Aluminium alloy tubes, steel tubing, sheets, bolts and rivets, fabric for the detachable wings are listed in its bill of materials with sources for purchase. The plans show the parts dimensions and the drawings provide exploded views and assembly instructions that can be grasped at a glance. The website managed by this company also provides a number of sample plans that users can view before deciding to go in for the products.

Aeros Ultralight Helicopter

The helicopter enthusiast who is looking to build a home built experimental helicopter would find plans for building one at Aeros helicopter. The Aeros construction manual that comes with the plans gives detailed construction prints, photos and assembly instructions to guide the builder. A bonus guidebook titled �Homebuilt Helicopter Guidebook� that is provided as part of the kit has several illustrated examples of how helicopters work and factors that go into the design of the various systems.

A comprehensive list that is included provides information on sources of engines, metals, AN hardware, cables, controls, rotorblades, instruments and all the regulations that need to be followed. The manual can be ordered separately without the plans too.

Evans Lightplanes Design

Evans lightplanes design is another company that provides ultralight aircraft building plans. The plan kit comes with a ready source of data used in the field of light plane design. The plans are well laid out on paper with easy to grasp diagrams and illustrations. About 145 pages of simplified tables and charts inform the user on Aero, engines, props, properties of wood, Aluminum, steel, composites, flight and landing loads.

The G-1 plans

G-1 plan from Gyrobee is designed for those who want to build an affordable, easy-to- build ultralight helicopter / gyroplane. The construction manual provides the constructor with all the details he needs for building Gyrobee. The package includes a valuable guide for the gyrobee hobbyist. The guide contains information on gyroplane basics, rotorblade and hub designs and specifications of various helicopters and gyroplanes. The guide also gives details of construction materials commonly used, a glossary of terms and a list of suppliers of parts and materials. Tables of weights, formula and conversions are a bonus.

Panzamy Aircraft Corporation

Panzamy Aircraft Corporation offers introduction packages for their PL-2, Pl-4A and PL-9 Stork designs in PDF format.

Plans for Boredom fighter ultralight aircraft can be at http://adap.com/Plans.htm.

The list above is only a small sample of the gamut of ultralight aircraft building plans that are available in the market and by no means complete. But these should be enough give you a very good start.

Ultralight Aircrafts - As Safe As The Birds?

Why are birds safe? Because they are physically engineered for flying safely and have evolved into a creatures who know just what to do and how to survive in an emergency. So, if you want to emulate the birds, you need to acquire an airworthy ultralight aircraft and the instinctive flight control that the birds have achieved. While airworthiness of the craft is a matter of judgment, certification and maintenance, mental perfection can be achieved only through excellent training and sustained airmanship. You can be safe as the birds if you desire so!

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Ultralight Airplane Safety Sertification

Strangely, ultralight aircrafts do not have to be certified for airworthiness. Most countries categorize ultralight aircraft as recreation or acrobatic aircraft and are only concerned about weight in the context of categorization. The rules stipulate that the aircraft should be manned by single occupant; used for recreation purposes; should not have an airworthiness certificate; unpowered aircrafts should weigh less than 155 pounds and powered ones should weigh 254 pounds or less. They also state that the fuel capacity should not exceed 5 U.S gallons or 19 liters and have a calibrated speed of 55 knots. The power off stall speed should not exceed 24 knots calibrated airspeed. The ultralight aircraft too, do not have to be registered or to bear any markings of any type.

Safety Requirements

However, most countries have rules prescribed for the types of persons who are authorized to maintain the ultralight aircraft. The details of qualifications of such mechanics are available in their update Air Directives, Advisories, Service Manual, and Air Worthiness of the Ultralight documentation. The mechanic who maintains the aircraft must have rights in accordance with the qualifications required for de-assembly, assembly, repair and maintenance. He must be able to certify that the repairs will not change the characteristics of the ultralight and the performance features. He must make sure that there are no issues under the skin and engine. He must certify that the frame and wing of the ultralight aircraft is in good working order. Even amateur ultralight enthusiasts who have built their own ultralight aircraft must acquire the certification if they want to maintain their aircrafts themselves.

As per these extant rules, the airmen too are not required to meet any aeronautical knowledge, age or experience requirements or any medical certifications. However, it must be emphasized that the aircraft is only as safe as its pilot makes it so. In reality, good airmanship is not definable. The predominant characteristics could be listed as a measure of awareness of the aircraft, its flight environment, his own capabilities and limitations and his behavior under stress. Self discipline and good judgment are integral to the concept. The pilot can fly only in good flying whether and must maintain his aircraft himself. He should ensure his physical safety by wearing helmet and keeping handing the emergency parachute.

Ultralight aircrafts are safe or unsafe depending on the time and effort devoted by the pilot to maintenance it and the awareness and airmanship with which he handles the aircraft.

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Get Yourself Prepared!

Purchasing construction plans

Photo by hyper7pro from flickr

The first step in the preparation for aircraft building, therefore, will begin with purchasing or acquiring aircraft construction plans. The plans must contain complete details of all the different parts, materials, tools, drawings and instructions on how to build the aircraft. If the drawings are full size, you will be able to save time and avoid problems that arise from inaccurate scaling up operations. A complete list of materials and sources for the same will help you cut out the time and expense of scouting around for the different parts you need for your plane.

If the company that sells the construction plans will also sell you an aircraft kit, you have got a winner for yourself (unless you really want to build from the scratch). If the instructions are detailed as they should be, you will have no difficulty in assembling the different parts. So you need to focus on the different construction plans available in the market and pick the one that suits you best. You will have to set about acquiring the different parts you need for assembling your plane.

Read more about building an ultralight airplane with construction plans.

Using Partial Kits? Why not!

If you feel that you need some expertise before investing large sums of money in building your aircraft you could take advantage of using the partial trial kits offered by some companies. The partial trial kit will focus on parts of the plane. For instance, you could buy a tail kit and assemble it. If you decide not to build the plane you can put up the tail for sale, or else you can go ahead and order the rest of the kit. The trail kits also come with an offer of on-phone help. You can call up the company for help and guidance as you go along.

Once you are done with acquiring the basic components, you will need to focus on getting yourself the necessary tools. Some building kits come with the tools, but not all of them. You need very simple tools you use for everyday things. If you have purchased a kit it will contain a table top drill press, metal cutting band saw(or hacksaw), various hand files, a dremel belt sander, hand drill, prop rivet gun and a table to build things on. You will also need a one inch tubing bender 8� radius, Jigsaw Pinking Shears, a paint brush, screwdriver, sandpaper, bench vice and so on. You will need no welding tools.

Take Care For Your Health

It is also important to remember that working with chemicals of any kind poses certain health hazards. The chemicals and resins can cause allergies. For instance, the materials used in the filler and ground glass can be health hazards. So providing yourself with dust masks and paint filtering masks with good ventilation may be a good idea. Though skin irritation and allergic reactions are rare it is commonsense to take care that you do not expose yourself unnecessarily to harmful irritants.

If you are ready with all the above, you will have to set aside around 2500-5000 hours for the building process if you are a newbie and use only construction plans without a kit. Professionals can do it for less. Beginners can do it for 500 - 1000 hours if using an ultralight aircraft kit. The fundamental idea is to take on the job slowly and systematically and not rush it.

Happy building!

Ultralight Helicopter

Why an ultralight helicopter? The helicopters are beautiful and unique, but very complex and expensive aircrafts. It's usually said that the helicopters are only for the very rich, not only because of the high start price, but also because of the high support costs.

The ultralight helicopters are simplifier, lighter and cheaper than the ordinary ones. They have all advantages or a helicopter and ultralight aircraft combined together.

On this page you will find not only information about the ultralight helicopters in general, but also a lot of useful advice how to build your own.

Building An Ultralight Helicopter - Preparation

People have always dreamed to fly. After the ultralight aircraft appeared many of the aviation enthusiasts have the possibility to experience regularly the enjoyment of flying on an ultralight helicopter. If you have felt the fun to fly on a helicopter and you would like to do it frequently, the ultralight version is the reasonable choice, which will not empty your wallet... Continue >>

Building An Ultralight Helicopter - Start Action

You have probably made a search on the web for producers of ultralight helicopters and helicopter kits in order to find out the best quality, the best price or just the heli which fits best to your dreams. Before making the final step towards ordering a plan, different pieces or a complete kit, look at the following checklist, which will help you to make better decision... Continue >>

Real Stories And Advice From Ultralight Helicopter Builders

If you are embarrassed and need to quicken your spirit, you need the positive story of someone who has already experienced the process of building his own ultralight helicopter.
There are many places where you can look for real stories of people who made in addition pictures of the different stages of building... Continue >>

Homebuilt Ultralight Helicopters

Many ultralight enthusiast build their airplanes on their own. They use kits or work "from scratch". The produced ultralight airplanes are known as Experimental/Home Built Aircrafts. Although doing this requires a lot of work and passion, it does not require engineer skills or knowledge. These enthusiast are just people like... Continue >>

Do You Want a Helicopter? Get an Ultralight!

You did not really think only the airplanes can be ultralight, did you? There are microlight and experimental helicopters, just like it is with the aircrafts. The helicopters have many advantages over the airplanes, especially for personal use. You don't need an airport or a track - the helicopter can land... Continue >>

How To Obtain Ultralight Helicopter Kits And Plans

Are you passionate about flying an ultralight helicopter? Do you dream to have a small heli sitting in your courtyard, waiting for you to come and raise it in the sky? As you can see in this article, there are many options to buy used or new ultralight helicopter. It's also... Continue >>

Ultralight Flying In USA

The sport ultralight flying in USA is probably as popular as sports like paragliding and sky diving. The low costs, the large choice of aircrafts and the great infrastructure have helped the ultralight aviation in USA to grow a lot in the last years.

Additionally it is just very easy to buy and fly an ultralight aircraft or helicopter in America. There are so many USA based manufacturers of ready ultralight airplanes, kits and plans so you can find good choice in any US state.

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The Specifics Of Ultralight Aviation in USA

The definition of an ultralight is different in USA than it is in the other countries. But the newly introduced "Light Sport Aircraft" category is very close to the ultralight categories in the rest of the world. This article - and the entire site - is about both Ultralight Airplane and Light Sport Aircraft categories.

The Light Sport Aircraft is similar to the New Zealand and UK "Microlight" category in terms of licensing and definition. Its maximum gross takeoff weight should be less than 600 kg or 1320 pounds and the maximum airspeed is 120 knots (222 km/h).

In USA the Ultralight airplanes can be operated only in the daylight hours.

Ultralight Aircrafts And Helicopters In USA

Some of the most popular ultralight aircraft manufacturers are located in USA:

Quicksilver Ultralight is located in Iowa.

Quad City Ultralight - the producer of the famous Challenger Aircraft is located in Illinois.

The exciting Toucan ultralight trainer can be found in Florida.

Fantasy Air USA from North Carolina produces the beautiful Allegro Light Sport Aircraft.

Just Aircraft is produced in South Carolina.

The producer of my favorite RANS S6 Coyote light sport aircraft is located in Kansas, USA.

And so on... You see some of the greatest ultralight airplanes and helicopters are produced in USA or delivered by dealers there. There is huge list of offers and the prices are as good as you can imagine. This gives the USA pilots and enthusiasts the ability to fly easier and to buy the airplane they like most without paying overseas delivery.

USA Ultralight Fly Training & Schools

USA is the place where you can get all kind of flight training and education at reasonable prices. Whether you are a beginner pilot working on your Private education or experienced pilot looking for a professional career, you'll find tons of instructors offering teaching at reasonable prices.

Sites like AviationSchoolsOnline will help you locate the the most appropriate fly training school near you. There are helicopter training schools, mechanics schools, dispatcher schools, air traffic controller schools and more.

If you wish to learn flying ultralights under Part 103 you can receive Ultralight Instruction for about $1,800 - $2,500.

If you are more interested to fly an Light Sport Aircraft, you can apply Sport Pilot Training course for slightly more than that.

There are a lot of Sport Pilot Test Courses sold online for about $300. They are good, but they are only for test preparation. Only practice can teach you to fly.

The pilots of ultralight aircrafts and helicopters in USA are favored with a lot of affordable options to learn and fly. If you ar an US citizen, you won't need to search too much. You can check our airplane resource center for links to classified sites, magazines, books, stores and forums where to find more information.

It's also a good idea to check for used ultralight aircrafts or used ultralight trikes, because there are many US based sellers in this business too.

Used Ultralight Aircraft

Buying an used ultralight aircraft allows many pilots with low budget to fly. But the low price is not the only advantage of doing this. The used airplane may come with first hand instructions and improvements which can make your flying better.

There are many things you should consider when buying used airplane. Many of them are discussed in the articles below.

If you are looking to sell your used ultralight or microlight aircraft, you will find a bit of advice and useful information too.

Used Ultralight Trikes - The Shortest Way To Start Flying

You have probably read the article about used ultralight aircrafts and already know that you can save a lot of money and time buying an used airplane. Of course, doing that has its disadvantages too and you should know how to choose a good one. Why trike and why used? Cheap for... Continue >>

See How Easily You Can Get Used Ultralight Aircraft

Ok, so you are not so keen on building your airplane from a kit yourself, are you? But the new aircrafts can be a bit expensive, even if they are ultralights. So it is a wise decision to consider buying an used ultralight aircraft and save money and time. But... Continue >>

Ultralight Airplanes

If you are interested in owning, buying or building an ultralight airplane, or you are just interested in knowing more about the ultralight airplanes in general - this page is for you.

Here you will find articles about pricing, licensing and registering your ultralight aircraft. If you want to know more about the other aspects of the ultralight aviation - gliders, flex wing trikes, helicopters or microlighting - just browse the other categories. If you want to know something that is not covered here, just email me at admin[at]ultralight-airplanes.info and we'll do our best to research and publish more information.

Light Sport Aircraft - The Poor Man's Chance to Soar

The reasons for their surging popularity are myriad, but one of the most compelling is the lower cost associated with owning and operating light sport aircraft.... Continue >>

Light Sport Aircraft - The Little Guy's Ticket to the Wild Blue Yonder

Their allowed gross takeoff weight is no more than 1320 pounds (many horses weigh more). You could buy eighty squadrons of the most expensive for the price of the most expensive horse ever sold at auction. Continue >>

How To Become a Light Sport Aircraft Pilot

Have you dreamed for years of becoming a pilot? If so, you're in luck, because the soaring popularity of light sport aircraft... Continue >>

Light Sport Aircraft

In USA there is a category of ultralight airplanes called Light Sport Aircraft. If you are from Europe, Asia or Africa you may never need to deal with that term... unless you want to fly in USA of course. Continue >>

Ultralight Airplane - What Do You Need To Know?

Read this page to undertsand the basics of the ultralight aviation and the things you always wanted to know. Continue >>

Are Ultralight Airplanes Right For Your Budget?

The ultralight aviation made it possible. Everyone, and I mean really everyone can have their aircraft today. What is your budget? What kind of flying vehicle do you want to own? This short article will give you some suggestions. Over $100,000 You can get almost everything from the Ultralight aviation. Continue >>

Popular Ultralight Aircrafts

There are some ultralight airplanes which are so widely known that every aviation enthusiast have either heard, seen or flown on them. Certainly the ultralight and microlight model aircrafts are too many (especially if you add the homebuilt/experimental ones) and there is a chance at least one of them will... Continue >>

Ultralight Gliders - Flying Without Engine

Do you know how the ultralight aviation started at? No, it is not coming from the general aviation. The ultralight airplanes have evolved from hang gliders. But this evolution did not kill the gliders. They are still widely used and available in many variations. What exactly is an ultralight glider? Continue >>

Ultralight Seaplanes - Amphibians, Flying Boats and Floats

All these are different types or just names of an interesting category ultralight aircrafts - the Ultralight Seaplanes. Are you already asking what's so great about them? Imagine what were you going to do if you had both a boat and an airplane. (Or maybe you already have them?) Continue >>

Here Are Some Of The Best Discussion Forums About Ultralight Airplanes

The Web is huge and full with all kind of sites on about every topic you can think of. But for us, the fans of the ultralight aviation, there are very few places to visit. Except this site there are just a few ones which pay attention to the ultralight... Continue >>

Seven Good Books and DVDs About Ultralight Aviation

I hope you have found a lot of interesting info on this site. Are you already looking for more? There will be more articles and even a blog is coming on the way (to be notified about that, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter). Do you want to go... Continue >>

Ultralight Airplanes - Introduction To Ultralight Aviation

Light Sport Aircraft - The Poor Man's Chance to Soar

Light Sport Aircraft - The Little Guy's Ticket to the Wild Blue Yonder

How To Become a Light Sport Aircraft Pilot

Where To Find Ultralight Aircraft Plans

Ultralight Aircraft Plans

Helicopter Plans

Free Ultralight Plans

Personal Hovercraft - Swim, Drive And Fly Over The Ground

So, What Is a Hovercraft And Personal Hovercraft?

Where To Find A Hovercraft

Hovercraft Kits And Building It Yourself

Aviation Modeling

Real Stories And Advice From Ultralight Helicopter Builders

Building An Ultralight Helicopter - Preparation

What Is Ultralight Helicopter?

How To Get An ultralight Helicopter?

Where To Start?

What To Buy?

What else you need to build your helicopter?

Building An Ultralight Helicopter - Start Action

Self-confidence

Basic knowledge

Timing

The Design

The Help

How To Fly An Ultralight Aircraft Even When You Do Not Own Any

Buying a share

Participating in a club

Renting an ultralight airplane

Paying for a piloted flight

Attending pilot's education

Light Sport Aircraft

Here are Some Examples of Popular Light Sport Aircrafts

Some Useful Resources About Light Sport Aircraft

Further Reading

Ultralight Flying

How To Fly An Ultralight Aircraft Even When You Do Not Own Any

What Factors Rule The Performance Of Ultralight Airplanes?

Ultralight Aircrafts - As Safe As The Birds?

Ultralight Flying In USA

Aircraft School

How To Find Good Ultralight Flying Lessons For Helicopters And Airplanes

Should You Attend An Aircraft School?

Microlight Airplane

How To Fly Easier With Flex Wing Ultralight Aircrafts (Ultralight Trikes)

Touch The Sky With An Affordable Microlight Airplane

How To Find Good Ultralight Flying Lessons For Helicopters And Airplanes

So How To Obtain A Flying License

Find A Good Aircraft School

Get The Most Of Your Flying Lessons

Build Ultralight Airplane

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Get Yourself Prepared!

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Using Construction Plans

Using The A10 D Aircraft Kit To Build Your Own Ultralight Airplane

The Glorious Aircraft Building Journey Of Alan and Dale Klapmeier

The Glorious Aircraft Building Journey Of Alan and Dale Klapmeier

The Brothers Were Fascinates By Ultralight Airplanes

The Beginning

Re-building their first airplane

Building their ultralight airplane from scratch

What Factors Rule The Performance Of Ultralight Airplanes?

Atmospheric Density

ASI Position Error

Other Factors

Using The A10 D Aircraft Kit To Build Your Own Ultralight Airplane

What's In The Kit?

Assembling The Kit

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Using Construction Plans

The Affordaplane Construction Plans

The Fighter Ultralight E-plans

Aeros Ultralight Helicopter

Evans Lightplanes Design

The G-1 plans

Panzamy Aircraft Corporation

Ultralight Aircrafts - As Safe As The Birds?

Ultralight Airplane Safety Sertification

Safety Requirements

Building an Ultralight Aircraft: Get Yourself Prepared!

Purchasing construction plans