Ultralight Frequently Asked Questions...

What is an Ultralight?

    An Ultralight is defined as an aircraft used for personal recreation which meets the following guidelines...
     
      1) Is used or is intended to be used for manned operation in the air by a single occupant.
      2) Is used or intended to be used for recreation or sport purposes only.
      3) Does not have any U.S. or foreign airworthyness certificate: and
      4) If unpowered: weighs less than 155 lbs: or
      5) If powered:
        a) Weighs less than 254 lbs empty weight, excluding floats and safety devices which are intended for deployment in a potentially catastrophic situation
        b) Has a fuel capacity not exceeding 5 U.S. gallons
        c) Is not capable of more than 55 knots calibrated airspeed at full power, in level flight: and
        d) Has a power-off stall speed which does not exceed 24 knots, calibrated airspeed.
Do I have to have a pilot's license to fly an Ultralight?
    NO! Operators of Ultralight aircraft are NOT required to meet any aeronautical knowledge, age, or experience requirements.
Are they safe?
    As with any vehicle, Ultralight aircraft are as safe as the operator and maintenance person involved with the vehicle.
Can I fly a 2 seat Ultralight?
    THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A 2 SEAT ULTRALIGHT AIRCRAFT!
    THE 2 SEAT AIRCRAFT IS USED FOR INSTRUCTIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, BY A USUA REGISTERED FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR.
    YOU MAY FLY A 2 SEAT AIRCRAFT ONLY IF:
      1) You are an USUA registered flight instructor, and the vehicle is registered with USUA for the purpose of training other people to fly Ultralight aircraft, or as solo transportation for the instructor to get back and forth to the student, or for the student to solo under the direct supervision of the instructor.
      SEE THE EXEMPTION allowing this usage
      OR
      2) The 2 seat aircraft is registered as an experimental aircraft, which carries an N number on the tail and you are a licensed pilot.
Does FAA regulate Ultralight aircraft and flight? Do I have to land an Ultralight at an airport?
    No...Ultralight aircraft can be landed in any safe location (unless said location is prohibited from such landings), as long as the Ultralight is properly configured.
How long does it take to learn to fly an Ultralight?
    Depending on the individual, you can learn in as little as 10 hours to safely fly an Ultralight (for non-experienced pilots).
Why do I have to sign a waiver/release of liability before I can buy a used Ultralight?
    A waiver and release of liability is a standard form used in order to ensure that the buyer is fully aware of the dangers involved in the operation of Ultralight vehicles.  It is also to ensure that the buyer is aware that ANY aircraft (not just Ultralights) may have hidden structural problems which are undetected. (Ultralight vehicles are NOT a certified aircraft).
Why do I have to sign a release of liability just to take an introductory flight?
    As above...Each individual needs to be made aware of the dangers involved in flying Ultralight aircraft, each individual is responsible for their own safety. This is so you can make an informed decision, before you choose to fly.
Are there any age limits for learning to fly an Ultralight?
    NO...However, it is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that minors under the age of 16 wait until they are older to learn to fly, and that persons under the age of 18, MUST have parental consent, before undertaking flight instruction.
Do I have to join USUA, EAA or another Ultralight or pilots organization to fly an Ultralight?
    NO...We would like to see all Ultralight pilots join one of these organizations, but it is not required.
What if I already have a pilot's license?
    You can be checked out in an Ultralight training vehicle to ensure competency prior to flying solo. We strongly recommend you do this FIRST!