Microlighting

Trial Flights/Introductory Lessons

The best way to find out what microlighting is all about is to come and have an introductory flight. You'll be given a quick one on one briefing, showing you the controls and how to take your seat behind / aside the instructor and taking to the skies.

What is a Microlight?

The term 'microlight' refers (in the UK) to any aircraft weighing less than 450kg MAUW, a maximum of 2 occupants, and various specific limits with regard to wing loading and stall speed. It can refer to two different types of microlight. You say Fixed Wing, I say Flexwing...

Exhilarating but safe, reliable and fun. Microlighting is an experience you won't forget in a hurry!

The Two Types of Microlight

There are basically 2 types of microlight, fixed wing or flex wing.

Microlight in flight

Fixed wing or Flexwing?

'Fixed wing' microlights, also known as '3 axis' or 'ultralights' look and feel more like a conventional light aircraft, but are much lighter and more affordable to run. They use elevators, aelerons and a rudder to achieve control through control surfaces mounted on the wings and tail section.

Learning to microlight

Learn to Fly specialises in 'flex-wing', or 'weight shift' microlights. Light, speedy, and maneuvreable and an open cockpit allowing you nearly 360 degree views.

The 'flex wing' microlight is controlled in a similar way to a hang glider, using weight-shift control - the pilot controls the direction and airspeed of the aircraft using a control bar.

Ian in Thruster

A flexwing is more open to the elements, flies like a hang glider, and offers insurpassable all round views.

A fixed wing microlight is much warmer, generally enclosed, and is controlled just like a light aircraft.

They are built with tube and fabric in some cases and fibreglass and composites in later desgins.