Microlight Training
A National Private Pilot Licence (NPPL) Microlight licence is required to fly microlights, and can be gained by training with a qualified flying instructor in accordance with a CAA (civil aviation authority) syllabus of training. The minimum requirements are :-
- 25 hours total flying time to include :-
- 10 hours solo consolidation including two qualifying cross country flights of 40 nautical miles.
A restricted licence is available with reduced requirements (15hrs total, to include 7hrs solo flying), but will limit you to flying in the local area. In either case, you will need to pass a General Skills Test and an oral exam, which is much akin to a driving test. In addition to this you will need to pass 5 multiple choice exams in the following subjects:-
- Principles of flight
- Air law
- Navigation
- Meteorology
- Human factors
This may all sound a little onerous but in practice it is fascinating and good fun. A microlight licence is simpler than a conventional aircraft licence and can be gained in approximately 2/3 the flying time and 1/2 the cost. Don‘t be frightened of the exams either, although thorough they are easily and enjoyably learnt and our 100% pass rate serves to prove this point.
The above licence requirements are minimums and do not guarantee a pass, everyone learns at different rates and times may vary. However anyone with determination and a little application should be able to "win their wings".
Follow the link to a Summary of the NPPL (Microlight) course.