SPL FAQ

An ultralight aircraft is a particularly lightweight, usually two-seater powered aircraft with a limited maximum take-off mass, which is specially designed for leisure flight.

At the age of 16, you can start training and take the practical examination at the age of 17.

Yes, usually a medical class LAPL is required that confirms your health suitability to operate an ultralight aircraft.

The duration depends on time budget, weather and learning progress and is often between a few months and about a year.

At least 30 hours of flight time are required, but many students need a little more to feel really safe.

Typically, the cost is between 5,000 and 10,000 euros, depending on flight school, aircraft type and individual training period.

Yes, a radiophone certificate is required for radiotelephony, usually at least the BZF II, for English radio the BZF I.

Yes, after obtaining the license and fulfilling certain conditions (e.g. additional briefing and minimum flight hours) passengers can be taken with them.

You can fly in Germany and – depending on national regulations – also in many other European countries, provided that the respective regulations are complied with.

Yes, cross-border flights are possible if the flights are planned correctly, the destination countries are checked on their regulations and any formalities are observed.

Many UL aircraft have cruising speeds between about 120 and 250 km/h, depending on the model.

In Germany, flights are allowed in the airspace cleared for UL, usually up to about 10,000 feet, depending on the airspace structure.

For purely German radio, they are not mandatory, for international or English radio traffic (e.g. BZF I), however, is required.

Typical examination subjects are air law, navigation, meteorology, engineering, behaviour in special cases and human performance.

You will complete an exam flight with an examiner, which includes take-off, landing, emergency procedures, navigation, radio and general handling.

Club membership is not mandatory, but it can offer benefits in terms of cost, community and aircraft availability.

Yes, many flight schools and clubs offer their UL aircraft by the hour for chartering to licensed pilots.

Usually, you must demonstrate minimum flight hours within a certain period of time and occasionally complete an instructor check flight.

The relevant test may then be repeated at a later time after open points have been worked up with the flight instructor.

Visual flight conditions (VFR) apply: sufficient visibility ranges, cloud distances and weather conditions in which flow can be safely flown.

Yes, both new and used UL are available on the market; often holding communities are an interesting, cost-effective option.

Modern ULs are technically mature; safety depends primarily on maintenance, training, flight preparation and pilot decisions.

In Germany, UL flights at night are currently not allowed; UL are operated exclusively under visual flight conditions by day.

Depending on the category, the maximum take-off mass in Europe is in many cases up to 600 kg, details govern the respective regulations.

Yes, navigation is a central part of the training, both classic with map and using modern tools.

As a general rule, flying over localities in compliance with minimum flight altitudes and safety regulations is permitted, provided that the airspace allows it.

Yes, with the appropriate radio certificate, release of air traffic control and compliance with the specifications, you can also use controlled airspace.

With motivated attitude, good flight school and regular practice, flying learning is well-feasible for most people.

There is no rigid age limit; it is crucial that the aero-medical certificate continues to be issued without restriction.

Yes, many UL pilots use their aircraft for excursions and tours at home and abroad and thus experience Europe from the air.