Ultralight Aircraft

Ultralight aircraft are unique in Australia in that as part of the Light Sport Aircraft category they are members of the only form of aviation largely ungoverned by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority. Instead, their management goes to self-administering organisations that bear the burden of maintaining regulatory compliance. This also means that the burden of airworthiness certification falls on the aircraft manufacturer rather than the government. All pilots have to be members of an organisation in order to fly.

Light Sport Aircraft

Under Australian law, a Light Sport Aircraft has to meet a number of restrictions in various categories, many of which exceed the limits of traditional ultralight aircraft. These aircraft may not be pressurised, and may only carry a maximum of one or two people with a total takeoff weight of 650 kg for the heaviest category. The stall speed can be no higher than 45 knots, and the maximum speed no greater than 135 knots for gliders.

Ultralights vs. Microlights

The primary difference between ultralight and microlight aircraft is the control scheme. In general an ultralight aircraft uses the same three-axis control scheme as any conventional aeroplane, while one controls a microlight through weight shifting, just like a hang glider. They normally use very small lightweight aircraft engines. Ultralights are generally somewhat larger, but both are very small aircraft.

Recreational Aviation Australia

Recreational Aviation Australia is the self-administered organisation that serves as the primary governing body for ultralight and microlight aviation. It offers flight instruction and issues both recreational pilots certificates and recreational pilots licences. The certificate is a good option for beginning pilots, as it only requires the same physical standard as your driver licence.

Aircraft Design

The majority of three-axis ultralights feature fixed tricycle landing gear and a rag and tube design. High wings are most common for safety reasons. Most are homebuilt and rely on a single tractor propeller. Weight shift aircraft more commonly use pusher propellers, and may rely on either a fixed wing above the frame or sometimes a parafoil.

Ultralight Aircraft

Shop by Category

You may also like

Related searches