In Part 1, the types of microlights available was discussed. In Part 2, we look at the training schools & costs
8 April 2026
Hourly Lessons: £150 – £175
Includes dual instruction in a school aircraft (typically an Ikarus C42 or Eurofox) and pre/post-flight briefings.
Based on the legal minimum hours for the NPPL(M). This usually covers 25 flying hours, groundschool, and basic membership fees.
Most students require additional hours to master landings and navigation. This budget also accounts for landing fees, five written exams, and the General Skills Test (GST).
The market is diverse, and range from an entry level, older flexwing (approx £2,500), mid-range, quality (£10,000-£35,000), to top-notch (approx £100,000+).
Pro Tip: Join a Group. Joint ownership (syndicates of 4-6 people) is a common way to split purchase and maintenance costs while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow pilots.
The primary hub for these is AFORS (Alex Ferrari’s Online Resource System). I also recommend checking the BMAA (British Microlight Aircraft Association) classifieds, as listings there often come from long-term enthusiasts.
Microlights are powered by modern, reliable engines like the Rotax 912 series.
For ultimate freedom, SSDR aircraft (up to 300kg) do not require formal annual inspections or approvals, though pilots still need a licence and insurance.
The market is diverse, and range from an entry level, older flexwing (approx £2,500), mid-range, quality (£10,000-£35,000), to top-notch (approx £100,000+).
Pro Tip: Join a Group. Joint ownership (syndicates of 4-6 people) is a common way to split purchase and maintenance costs while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow pilots.
The primary hub for these is AFORS (Aircraft For Sale). I also recommend checking the BMAA (British Microlight Aircraft Association) classifieds, as listings there often come from long-term enthusiasts.
Microlights are powered by modern, reliable engines like the Rotax 912 series.
For ultimate freedom, SSDR aircraft (up to 300kg) do not require formal annual inspections or approvals, though pilots still need a licence and insurance.
To move from reading to flying, the British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA) is your primary resource. They represent the interests of microlight pilots and oversee the training standards in the UK.
The BMAA maintains a comprehensive directory of flight schools across the UK. You can search by your postcode to find the nearest instructor for both fixed-wing and flexwing training.
