Ultralight aircraft (Canada)

In Canada, ultralight aircraft are regulated by Transport Canada under the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), specifically Part VI - General Operating and Flight Rules and Part X - Recreational Aviation Activities. An ultralight aircraft is defined in the CARs as a single-seat or two-seat aircraft, designed and manufactured to meet specified weight, stall speed, and other performance criteria.

Key characteristics and regulations pertaining to ultralight aircraft in Canada include:

• Definition: The CARs outline precise definitions for ultralight aeroplanes, gliders, and powered parachutes, specifying maximum weights, wing loading limits, and stall speed limitations. Meeting these criteria is crucial for an aircraft to be classified and operated as an ultralight.

• Licensing: Pilots operating ultralight aircraft in Canada are required to hold either a Pilot Permit – Ultralight Aeroplane or a higher-level pilot license. Obtaining this permit involves completing a prescribed flight training program, passing a written examination, and demonstrating the required flight skills to a certified flight instructor.

• Aircraft Registration: While not subject to the same registration requirements as standard category aircraft, ultralight aircraft must be identified with a unique identification mark assigned by Transport Canada.

• Operating Limitations: The CARs impose various operating limitations on ultralight aircraft, including restrictions on flight over densely populated areas, minimum altitude requirements, and rules regarding the carriage of passengers (generally restricted to training or dual-seat ultralights with a qualified instructor). Night flying and flight in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) are generally prohibited without specific endorsements and equipment.

• Maintenance: While formal aircraft maintenance schedules are less stringent than for certified aircraft, owners are responsible for maintaining their ultralight aircraft in a safe and airworthy condition, following manufacturer's recommendations or developing their own appropriate maintenance program.

• Safety: Transport Canada actively promotes safety within the ultralight aviation community through educational programs, safety seminars, and the dissemination of safety information. Accident reporting is mandatory, and Transport Canada investigates accidents to identify potential safety issues and recommend preventative measures.

• Ultralight Aeroplane Associations: Organizations such as the Ultralight Pilots Association of Canada (UPAC) play a significant role in representing the interests of ultralight pilots, promoting safety, and providing training and support to the ultralight community. They often work closely with Transport Canada on regulatory matters and safety initiatives.

• Advanced Ultralight Aeroplanes (AULA): A subset of ultralight aircraft, AULA are defined by even stricter criteria related to weight, power, and design. They require a more specialized pilot permit (Pilot Permit - Recreational Aviation) and are subject to certain operational restrictions.