1. •What is a microlight?
   

A microlight is defined as an aircraft which has maximum take off weight that does not exceed 450kg. It must also have the capacity to be controllable at a flying speed as low as 40mph.

There are two main types: “Flex-wing” and “3-axis”. 

Most people will mistake the 3-axis type as a normal light aircraft as it has the appearance of a miniature aeroplane. Although it is still a microlight aircraft, it is controlled by “stick and rudder” inputs.

The flex-wing is like a hang glider with a trike attached underneath. It is powered by an engine at the rear and controlled by an “A frame.”

Modern day microlights have an excellent safety record. They have the ability to glide back to earth in the event of an engine failure or malfunction which, in today’s machines, is a rare occurrence.

Microlights can operate legally from simple grass strips as long as the landowner’s permission is given and airspace restrictions are taken into account. Microlights have the capability of landing in and taking off from relatively short strips, which makes flying around the country quite feasible.

The distance which can be covered in a microlight is astounding, both Brian Milton and Colin Bodill have flown around the world and Richard Meredith Hardy actually towed a hang glider over Everest!! (Most of us stick to altitudes of about 1500 feet). Richard also flew from London to Sydney in just 55 days piloted by the superb Miles Hilton-Barber who is totally blind. They flew for over 250 hours covering more than 13,500 miles in total. Most microlights are like a typical family car; you fill up with fuel and can travel around 300 miles on one tank.

As a microlight owner you are free to do your own aircraft maintenance or if you prefer you can get a professional to do it. You can modify your aircraft in any way, as long as you get CAA approval for it before flying.

The aircraft presently in use at Otherton include an awesome Quik GT450 which is not only the fastest flex-wing in production gaining speeds of up to 95mph, but also has the highest seat loading for a flex-wing at 110kg for both the pilot and passenger. The GT450 has a fuel capacity of 65 litres and has excellent slow speed handling capabilities.

We also use a Eurostar 3-axis microlight which has a clear canopy giving fantastic all round visibility.  It boasts a cruising speed of 100mph and just looks the business!

Staffordshire Microlights are also proficient in aircraft sales so if you are thinking about purchasing a microlight we are happy to help. We can work in unison with all the main manufacturers to ensure that you get the best deal around.  If you are not sure what you want to get then come and have a chat and we’ll point you in the direction of the aircraft best suited to your needs.

You can pick up a second-hand microlight for figures in the region of £2,500-£5,000 and brand new kit built planes start at £13,500. A good way of affording a newer or more expensive machine is to join a syndicate which can be arranged through the school. Some 3-axis machines can cost over £40,000 and as there aren’t many of us with that much spare cash, the chance of a share in one is very appealing!

1. •Do I need to ring before I set off?
   

You must check the weather forecast on the day of your flight by calling Rob on 07973 339108 between 8am and 9am.

1. •What do I need to bring ?
   

Your Staffordshire Microlights voucher and a camera!

1. •What do I need to wear?
   

You should wear reasonably warm clothing, trousers and boots or trainers.

1. •Can I bring guests?
   

Yes, there is a viewing platform for guests and tea, coffee and snack facilities.

Please check before as these facilities are currently being upgraded.

1. •Can I bring my dog?
   

Unfortunately as it is an active airfield it is politely requested that dogs are not brought to the field or are at least kept securely within a vehicle.

1. •What is the procedure on arrival?
   

When you arrive please report to the reception area, if no one is there, look up!

1. •What about specialist clothing?
   

You will be given a BlueSkyBlue flying suit and gloves to wear along with a helmet and headset.

1. •How will I know what the pilot plans to do?
   

You will receive a flight briefing before and whilst in the aircraft.

You will be in radio contact with the instructor at all times.

1. •Can I experience taking the controls?
   

You will be offered the chance of taking over the controls of the aircraft or if you prefer you can be chauffeured the whole time! At the end of the flight you will receive a certificate acknowledging your achievement.

And if you like it why not think about learning to fly yourself!