Article

Ultralight Aircraft

Homebuilt ultralight aircraft are small and lightweight planes that will typically hold only one seat. These types of planes are used mainly for recreation and fly at low speeds. Interestingly enough, ultralight aircraft started out as the hang glider which continually became more and more intricate. In the US these aircrafts are registered as vehicles so you do not even need a pilot's license in order to fly one.  If you are interested in the hobby of built ultralight aircraft then you could find no better place to start. Following will provides you with some essential information you should know if you plan on taking on this hobby.

In US country it has a different definition of homebuilt ultralight aircraft from Europe and many other countries, and therefore a different regulation code. In the U.S. definition these aircrafts will possess the following attributes:

•        Has just a single seat

•        Is used only for sports and recreation

•        Doesn't have an airworthiness certificate

•        Weight will no more than 155 pounds, unless it has an engine

If it does have an engine, it has another set of rules & regulations:

•        Weigh must be less than 254 pounds, empty with flotation devices

•        Will have a fuel capacity of no more than 5 gallons

•        The speed limit will be 55 knots (63 miles per hour)

•        Power off stall speed of 24 knots (28 miles per hour)

One of the best things about the homebuilt ultralight aircraft is they do not have to meet airworthiness certification requirements or earn these certificates. In order to fly these ultralight aircraft, you do not have to prove any experience or knowledge, and you do not have to be any specific age either. Furthermore, you do not have to register these ultralight aircraft nor must they carry with them any registration markings. Even though training is not necessary by the law, it is highly advised that you do undergo professional training for your own safety.

However, even though the rules & regulations regarding certifying your homebuilt ultralight aircraft are lenient, when it comes to the operation there are certain things that you should know about. For one thing, ultralight aircraft can only be flown during daylight. There are some certain exceptions to this rule though; for example, they may be flown during Twilight if it has been fitted with an anti-collision light. people must also never be flown over a congested city, town, or open air assembly. If your ultralight aircraft has 2 seats instead of one, you can be allowed extra weight.

This is the some brief overview of the rules and many things you should familiarize yourself with if you are interested in building and/or flying your own homebuilt ultralight aircraft