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

English Countryside from the air

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!

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.

Note the missing manifold bolt and gap

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.

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