A Once Promising Sport Aviation Segment May Yet Rise Again...

It seems like yesterday... standing among the crowd listening to the announcement of what Part 103 was actually go to be all about and how it might transform the once promising ultralight community... before it was all but destroyed by bad media and industry neglect.

The 40th anniversary of the ultralight vehicle and Part 103 will be celebrated this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2022. Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 103, which put regulations on ultralight vehicles effective October 4, 1982, marked the beginning of ultralights as we know them today. These regulations include operating rules, the definition of what qualifies as an ultralight, and more.

Ultralights are known for their light weight, affordability, and as a fun way to fly. Some of the iconic ultralight vehicles that are celebrating their 40th anniversaries this year at AirVenture include the CGS Hawk, Fisher FP101, Phantom, Hiperlight, and B1-RD.

EAA founder Paul Poberezny once said, “Freedom is what EAA is all about… Freedom to create and build… to dream… to fly.” Part 103 created a sense of freedom to fly for those that always wanted to but could not afford to. Not very often do people who love aviation celebrate federal aviation regulations, but this one allowed for many ultralight pilots to enjoy recreational flying without some of the restrictions and certification that comes with other forms of aviation.

Development of innovative designs, materials, and construction technologies within the last 40 years has allowed more and more people to take part in ultralight flying. Emerging technologies, such as eVTOL aircraft, may also benefit from Part 103, as many may fall under the various regulations required of an ultralight, such as gross weight and cruise speed.

FMI: www.eaa.org