Weekend Wings: Why Lightweight Microlights Are Made for Adventure

Weekend flying just got a whole lot more thrilling with lightweight aircraft designed for pure adventure. Imagine soaring above patchwork fields in a sub-70 microlight, feeling the breeze and freedom that only open skies offer. At Fun Flying Aviation, we make it easy and affordable to take your first flying lesson UK pilots rave about—whether it’s your first flight or the start of a new passion. Ready to discover why lightweight microlights are the perfect choice for weekend flying? For more insight, check out this interesting discussion on the benefits of ultralight aircraft.

The Thrill of Weekend Flying

Flying isn’t just a mode of travel; it’s an adventure that elevates your spirit. Let’s explore how you can tap into the joy of flight with lightweight aircraft.

Embrace the Freedom of Flight

Imagine breaking free from the daily grind as you glide through the sky. Lightweight aircraft offer a sense of liberation that other hobbies simply cannot match. When you’re airborne, the world below becomes a beautiful tapestry, and you feel truly alive. Each flight offers a unique view, making every journey an unforgettable experience.

Affordable Adventures Await

You might think flying is only for the wealthy, but that’s not true. With affordable flying lessons, you can join the sky-high adventures without breaking the bank. Microlight aircraft are not just exciting; they are cost-effective too. Fuel-efficient engines and minimal maintenance keep your expenses low, allowing you to focus on the thrill of flying.

Beginners Welcome: No Experience Needed

Are you new to flying? No worries! Fun Flying Aviation welcomes beginners with open arms. You don’t need prior knowledge to start. Our friendly instructors make learning easy and fun. Picture yourself taking off on your first flight, surrounded by supportive guides who share your passion for aviation. Ready to take the leap?

Microlights: The Perfect Adventure

Now that you’re excited about flying, let’s dive into why microlights are the ideal choice for weekend enthusiasts.

Why Choose a Microlight?

Microlights are perfect for adventure seekers. These nimble aircraft offer a unique flying experience. With their lightweight design, they provide great manoeuvrability and fun. They’re easy to transport, meaning you can explore various locations without hassle. Flying a microlight is not just about reaching a destination; it’s about the journey itself.

Meet the Minifox: Low-Cost Flight

The Minifox microlight is an excellent choice for first-time flyers. Known for its affordability and efficiency, this aircraft delivers maximum fun with minimal costs. Its open cockpit design offers a panoramic view, making each flight a visual treat. With the Minifox, you’ll enjoy the thrill of flying without the hefty price tag.

Flexwing vs. Fixed-Wing: What Suits You?

Choosing between flexwing and fixed-wing microlights depends on your flying style. Flexwing microlights are more like hang gliders, offering a thrilling, open-air experience. Meanwhile, fixed-wing microlights, like the Minifox, provide a traditional feel with better control and stability. Consider what excites you the most: the wind in your face or a smooth, controlled flight.

Your First Flying Lesson

Curious about what it’s like to start flying? Let’s guide you through your first trial flying lesson.

Fun Flying Aviation: Your Friendly Guide

At Fun Flying Aviation, we’re committed to making your flying dreams come true. Our instructors are passionate about sharing their love for flight. We offer personalised lessons tailored to your pace and interests. Whether you’re aiming to fly for fun or start a career in aviation, we’ve got you covered.

What to Expect from a Trial Lesson

Your first flying lesson UK will be unforgettable. You’ll start with a brief introduction on the ground before taking to the skies. Our instructors will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you feel comfortable and excited. You’ll experience the joy of controlling the aircraft, making your first lesson both empowering and exhilarating.

Join the Community: Be a Pilot in the UK

Joining our community at Fun Flying Aviation means more than just learning to fly; it’s about being part of a vibrant group of enthusiasts. Share experiences, learn from others, and celebrate milestones together. As you progress, you’ll find yourself not just flying but thriving within a supportive network of fellow pilots.

With every flight, you’re not just exploring the skies, you’re discovering a new passion. So why wait? Take that first step and experience the adventure of microlight flying.

Book your first lesson today.

October 23, 2025October 23, 2025

Exploring the UK from Above: Discover the Best Scenic Routes for Microlight Flying!

Forget the usual crowded skies and pricey aircraft—microlight flying opens a fresh window to explore the UK’s stunning landscapes like never before! Picture soaring above rolling hills, winding rivers, and ancient castles in a FunFlying aircraft that’s easy on your wallet and light on your licence worries. Ready to uncover the best UK scenic routes that bring adventure and freedom together? Let’s chart your next flight adventure! Check out this link for more inspiration.

Discovering Iconic UK Scenic Routes

Ready to take your flight adventure to new heights? Let’s dive into some of the UK’s most picturesque skies where every turn reveals a new wonder.

Soar Over the Scottish Highlands

Flying over the Scottish Highlands is like stepping into a dream. Picture this: rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, and ancient castles peeking through the mist. As you glide through the air, the vast expanse below feels like a canvas painted with every shade of green imaginable. The Highlands offer a unique blend of history and natural beauty that’s hard to match.

Imagine catching a glimpse of Ben Nevis or tracing the curves of Loch Ness from above. These are views that many can only dream of, but with a microlight, they’re within your reach. Remember, the Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so always check forecasts and fly prepared. A trip through the Highlands promises an unforgettable experience where nature’s grandeur meets human history.

Explore the Beauty of the Lake District

The Lake District is a gem waiting to be explored from the sky. With its stunning lakes and rolling hills, this region is a paradise for pilots. As you fly over, you’ll see how the land and water intertwine to create breathtaking patterns only visible from your unique vantage point.

Envision hovering above Windermere, the largest lake in England, or tracing the edges of Scafell Pike, the country’s highest peak. In a microlight, you have the freedom to explore these areas like never before. The Lake District is a haven for those seeking serenity and natural beauty. Be sure to experience this idyllic landscape, where every flight brings a new story to tell.

The Joy of Microlight Flying

Now that you’re excited about the scenic routes, let’s explore why microlight flying is the perfect choice for such adventures. It’s not just about the views; it’s about the experience!

Affordable Microlight Adventures

Flying doesn’t have to break the bank. With FunFlying’s affordable microlight options, you can enjoy the thrill of aviation without worrying about high costs. Our aircraft are designed with budget-conscious flyers in mind, offering a cost-effective way to take to the skies.

Imagine yourself owning a piece of the sky, exploring the UK’s scenic routes without the hefty expenses of traditional aviation. Our microlight aircraft provide a unique blend of affordability and adventure, making your flying dreams a reality. Say goodbye to costly licences and permits, and hello to freedom and exploration.

The Freedom of Sub-70 & SSDR Aircraft

For those seeking even more flexibility, sub-70 and SSDR aircraft offer unparalleled freedom. These lightweight machines are easy to transport and don’t require hangar space. With these super-light, super-portable aircraft, you can embark on spontaneous adventures whenever the mood strikes.

Picture yourself packing up your aircraft with ease and setting off to discover a new destination at a moment’s notice. The easy portability of these microlight aircraft means you can explore remote areas that larger aircraft can’t reach. This freedom is all about embracing the joy of flight without constraints, making each journey as exciting as the last.

Join the Aviation Community

A view from Penrith Beacon looking towards Lowther Castle

Flying is more than just a solitary experience; it’s a way to connect with like-minded enthusiasts who share your passion. Let’s delve into the vibrant community that awaits you.

Share Your Flight Adventure Stories

Every flight is a story waiting to be told. Share your experiences with others and inspire them to take to the skies. Whether it’s a breathtaking route over the Highlands or a serene glide over the Lake District, your stories can ignite the passion for flight in others.

Capture your adventures with photos or videos and contribute to online forums or social media groups. By sharing your journey, you’re not only preserving memories but also building a network with fellow flyers. Your stories might just be the spark someone needs to start their own aviation adventure.

Connect with Fellow Enthusiasts

Being part of the aviation community means surrounding yourself with people who understand your love for flying. Attend events, join clubs, and participate in fly-ins to meet fellow enthusiasts. The connections you make will enrich your flying experience and provide support and camaraderie.

Imagine discussing your latest flight over a cup of coffee or planning a group expedition to a new destination. The friendships you build in this community can last a lifetime, offering both personal and professional growth. By connecting with others, you become part of something bigger—a shared passion for the freedom and adventure of flight.

By embracing microlight flying, you’re not just exploring the UK’s scenic routes; you’re joining a community of adventurers who share your enthusiasm for the sky. With each flight, you uncover new landscapes and forge connections that enhance your journey. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to spread your wings and discover the thrill of microlight flying!

Share some of your best touring experiences with our community of pilots. Tell us what aircraft you flew and what was the best part of the journey. You may inspire others to follow in your footsteps or forge new routes for us to explore!

August 29, 2023

How Important Is Doing a Thorough DI?

He hadn’t expected this day to end like it did when he boarded his aircraft for just a short flight for a bit of fun around the local area. But what happened in the next few minutes could have changed his life and the lives of those around him forever.

Doing a full and thorough DI (Daily Inspection) on my aircraft, has been drilled into me from the first day I started flying. It was never fully explained why this is needed and exactly what to look for, but as time went on, I picked up little tips from other pilots. And learned of some of their close calls that could have been averted if a full DI had been done.

The significance of this has become more and more relevant to me over the years, and it has now become almost an obsession, especially if I haven’t flown for a while. Those of you who understand know what I mean. I sometimes find myself doubting whether I have done enough before I get in my aircraft and start the flight.

This was driven home recently when we were called to do some repairs and maintenance on one of our customer’s aircraft. The lucky pilot had taken his SSDR out of its hangar for a short pleasure flight around the local area like he had done several times before. We don’t know exactly what inspection was done, but what happened after take-off can only be described as a miracle.

The pilot experienced partial power loss (a topic for another day) immediately after the plane lifted off. Thinking it was just a momentary thing, he continued to try and climb only to have the engine continue with partial power. The pilot was confronted with just one option – put the plane into a row of trees only 200 metres from the end of his runway. Fortunately, he was unharmed and was able to walk away from the accident only being very shaken up.

The plane didn’t fair quite as well, with 2 broken wing struts and some bent struts on the tailplane. And that was just for starters.

When we arrived a few weeks later to assess the damage to start the repairs, we found something very disturbing. The picture below shows the exhaust manifold hanging precariously from the 2-stroke engine, with just one bolt partially secured. The second bolt was inserted but had nothing holding it on. This left a huge gapping opening in the exhaust, which would have contributed significantly to the power loss.

How it got to this state we will never know. Was it caused by the crash, or did it contribute to the crash? Given the amount of oil on the prop, the exhaust and fuselage of the aircraft, the suspicion is that it was like this before the flight and the power loss was a direct result of it. Given that the aircraft left the ground at all is a miracle in itself.

Could a thorough DI have picked up the problem? If we are thorough with our inspections and look for anything and everything that could be out of place, then probably yes. Will our DI pick up everything? Probably not, but they should ensure that gross problems like this are detected while we are still safe on the ground.

Why not share with us what steps you take before each flight to ensure your aircraft if fit to fly? What are the “non-negotiable” areas you check before each flight?

Your comments and suggestions could help save a disaster from happening to someone else.

April 6, 2023April 6, 2023

Calling All Snake Flyers!

It’s time to fly!!

This year Fun Flying will be at the Popham Microlight show on the 29th – 30th April in Hampshire. It would be great to get as many Eurofly Snake flyers as possible to bring your Snake trikes and make a really big showing.

Fly in if you can or drive it over and fly for the weekend.

There is plenty of camping available at Popham so book early and get a good spot. This year should be a great event as the second year after the lockdown.

Special Announcements

We will be announcing some new additions to the Snake line of aircraft at the show so be the first to hear what new and exciting things are being planned.

We will also be giving all Snake flyers who bring their aircraft and visit us on the stand a special Fun Flying goodie bag.

Book Your Tickets Now

To book your visitor ticket, just click the image below. Let’s make this a really big Snake event!

Looking forward to seeing you all at Popham!!

Marce Colucci
Fun Flying Ltd.

March 9, 2023

Cant’ Wait For Flying Season To Be Truly Here!

It seems like winter has lasted forever – at least to me. I had a short break in Spain in early February where I got to fly through some gorgeous mountain valleys near Alicante. Now I want to get the Snake and Minifox out and flying to as many shows and fly-ins as we can find.

Good News!

We will have both our aircraft, the Snake and the Minifox, at the Popham Microlight show at the end of April. Probably the UK’s most popular and usually well-attended (depending on weather) show. This is the one not to miss.

Many of you have a Snake ultralight so we would love to see you fly in if you are within reach. Or you can drive it down and camp for the weekend and enjoy the Hampshire country-side from the air. Popham have a huge parking field and there are always several campers under their wings.

To book click the image below to go directly to their website.

New Product Release!

We are now able to offer a handle-throttle option for the Eurofly Snake. The kit is very easy to fit and comes with the hand-throttle and attachments. If you fit it yourself, you will need to supply the throttle cable as it will need to be cut to length.

Or we are happy to fit the assembly for you. We just need your Snake for a day to fit and test. Details can be found on our website at https://funflying.co.uk/snake/prices/

New Strobes for the Snake

We hope to have details for you very soon about a new kit for strobe lights for the Snake. These will come with rechargeable batteries and are far more visible than the current ones. We will share the details as soon as we get a release date from the manufacturer when they have completed their testing.

That’s it for now. Our next newsletter will be before the Popham show. Until then we wish you all safe and fun flying!

Marce Colucci
Fun Flying Ltd.

June 22, 2022June 22, 2022

Airplay Aircraft under new ownership

Fun Flying leads the way in the ultralight market

The Eurofly Minifox with standard wheels.

Fun Flying is proud to be the new representative for Grif Italia, leaders in wing production, and Eurofly, leading designers and manufacturers of the Snake flex-wing trike, and the Minifox SSDR aircraft. Having taken over the business of AirPlay Aircraft, our aim is to make ultralight flying more accessible to everyone seeking to enjoy flying, while supporting all of the existing customers of Airplay.

From our airstrip just outside of Bicester, we plan to serve the whole of the UK market. Our goal is to make aviation affordable and available to a wider audience. We want to attract more pilots to the sport from the younger audiences who want to explore flying for the first time, to the older demographics who are looking for an affordable way to enjoy flying and fulfill a lifelong dream.

We have over 30 years of experience in building and flying aircraft, and training other pilots to fly microlights. We took over AirPlay because we believe that the Snake sub-70Kg flex-wing trike and the Minifox SSDR fixed-wing aircraft, are 2 of the best aircraft in the microlight market today.

While we transition things over to the new company, Airplay Aircraft website will still be the main source of information on all of our products and services. Watch for updates as we progress towards a full launch of Fun Flying!

We invite anyone who would like to experience these amazing aircraft to come and see them. To arrange a visit just call us on 0118 9888806 or 07888 929569 or drop us an email at adventures@funflying.co.uk