Who can fly?
Anybody can fly Advanced Ultra-Light aircraft. There are very few restrictions.
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What are the restrictions of who can fly?
Some aircraft may have weight restrictions, usually in the range of 260lbs, as well as a height limit of 6’5”.
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What type of aircraft will I be flying?
The Advanced Ultra-Light aircraft you will be flying will depend on the nature of the flight. We currently have three aircraft. Two Evektor SportStars, and the Ellipse Spirit for advanced training. They all provide terrific advantages whether you will be conducting flight lessons or scenic introductory flights.
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Do I get to choose what airplane I fly?
Normally the aircraft is chosen ahead of time as our aircraft are suited for different activities. However we are open to requests of aircraft selection.
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Can I fly any time of the year?
Yes, we are open every day of the year, excluding holidays. This is also weather dependent.
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What do I need to bring to my first flight?
There is nothing that is required to bring for your first flight. However we suggest you bring a good pair of sunglasses, and an SD card if you would like to film your flight.
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What equipment and supplies do I need for flight training?
After you have committed to doing more than a couple lessons, preferably you should have your own headset. However we provide rental headsets at no charge. You will also eventually need study materials which can be obtained at your discretion. These include a VNC and ICAO ruler at minimum which we can provide at a standard cost. Books will also be required. Ex. "From The Ground Up”, “How to become a pilot ver 5” etc.
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What are the airport rules?
The airport rules and regulations will be explained via email prior to your lesson and at the time of your training.
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Can I film my flight?
Yes, we have an onboard GoPro camera with a wide-angle lens, so you can record your entire lesson. The use of cameras is at no charge, but of course you can use your own if you wish. If you are looking to film your lesson and would like to avoid an additional fee for a provided SD card, you must supply one yourself.
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Are there any restrictions on who can come with me to see me flying?
The airport property is federally regulated and as such there are restrictions as to who may enter. We are limiting access of the airport to the customer flying and one person potentially filming or taking pictures. If you have a larger group we will kindly ask that they stay in the designated picnic area or in the airport restaurant.
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How difficult is flying an airplane?
The basis of flying is fairly simple. Our experienced instructors will provide all the guidance required for you to control the aircraft on your own. There is no need to worry as they can step in at any moment and take control, as our aircraft have dual control systems. It will most likely take you a few lessons before you figure out how the laws of aerodynamics work. In your first few lessons, take offs and landings can only be done by the instructor.
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What can I do with an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit?
An Ultra-Light Pilot Permit allows you to fly basic and advanced Ultra-Light aircraft solo. For some, a pilot’s license would help them stand out at a job interview or on a resume. Obtaining your Pilot’s License can add many benefits to your everyday life including great personal enjoyment. There are a multitude of things you can do. For example, you can fly to Toronto and do a scenic tour of the CN Tower, or fly over Niagara Falls, maybe even fly to Muskoka airport and visit a friend's cottage. You can fly somewhere and go hiking almost anywhere in south-central Ontario and even fly over to Quebec for a ski trip in the winter. You can fly virtually anywhere in about a third to half the time you could in a car at approximately the same cost.
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How long does it take to get an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit?
It depends how frequently you fly to complete your hours. If you flew once a week doing one hour lessons, it would take approximately 10-15 weeks. It is dependent on both your availability and the hours we have open for training.
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What does it cost to get an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit?
Minimum cost required to obtain an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit
- Eight Hours Dual Instruction: $1520
- Two hours of Solo flying: $300
- Ground School: $200
- Written Examination (ULTRA): $200
- Application: $45
- Total: $2,265
Ten hours of flying is the minimum required to obtain an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit, however most candidates require 30 hours to feel comfortable flying solo and pursuing more flight activities
- Realistic Estimate: $6,065
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Do I need to pass a physical examination to obtain an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit?
No, the only medical requirement to obtain an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit is to acquire a Category 4 Medical certificate. This is a self-declared medical certificate in which the candidate declares that they are medically fit for flight.
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Are there any tests involved in obtaining a Pilot Permit?
Yes, however, this is license dependent. For example, for the Ultra-Light Pilot Permit there is one written examination that you must achieve a score of 60% or over. For more information on the requirements see our Flight Training section.
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How many hours of ground school do I need to complete to obtain an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit?
A minimum of 20 hours of ground school instruction is required to obtain an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit. We can provide students with the required tools and content through partnered ground instruction from www.pilotraining.ca
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Why Advanced Ultra-Light planes?
Advanced Ultra-Lights provide superior air handling with more sensitive controllability. They have excellent visibility with the added advantage of low operating and ownership cost. There is also no need to have a certified mechanic looking after them - they can be owner-maintained.
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How safe are Advanced Ultra-Light planes?
Advanced Ultra-Light aircraft are as safe as other general aviation planes and are made to the same specifications - they are only lighter. They have all the necessary equipment and avionics, and provide paramount safety as most have built in ballistic parachute systems.
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How different are Advanced Ultra-Light planes from the other ones?
Advanced Ultra-Light planes provide a unique experience, where you can “feel the air” as the aircraft is much lighter than most general aviation planes. They are quick, sporty planes that are very nimble and easy to fly at the same time.
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Can I get my Private Pilot License (PPL) at Ellipse Aviation?
Unfortunately we do not provide training for Private Pilot Licenses. We are looking into expanding into general aviation training to provide PPL training - coming soon.
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I wear glasses or contacts, can I still be a pilot?
Yes. As a general rule, as long as you can pass a motor vehicle vision test, you meet the vision requirements to get an Ultra-Light Pilot Permit.
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Am I too old to become a pilot?
No, there are no age restrictions on who can fly or receive a license.
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