What are ultralights and microlights?
There are many classifications of “ultralights.” The term, as it is used in the Federal Aviation Regulations, applies to any vehicle, powered or unpowered, which meets the definitions of FAR Part 103 (Ultralight Vehicles). The terms “ultralight” and “microlight” are used in many other countries to describe single and 2-seat planes flown primarily for fun. The terms include powered ultralights (fixed wing, rotorcraft, powered parachutes, etc.) and unpowered ultralights (hang gliders, paragliders, sailplanes, balloons, etc.). FAR Part 103 definitions restrict weight, speed, and fuel. The definitions currently apply only to single-seat craft, with exemptions for two-seat craft that are used for instructional purposes only. Generally, the terms “ultralight” and “microlight” identify any lightweight vehicle designed to operate at very low speeds. Therefore, many vehicles commonly referred to as ultralights or microlight cannot actually be operated under the special rules of FAR Part 103. To
