To begin with, the motorized ultra-light designates a set of aircraft whose suspension is ensured by an engine. Responding to certain classification criteria, these are subject to less demanding regulations than those of heavier planes, making them easier to drive and less expensive when it comes to being a passenger. Their reign is divided into several classes , from 1 to 6, depending on their characteristics and their power .
The ultra-light of class 1 is well known to the public: it is simply paramotor ! On the other hand, it can be difficult to distinguish other classes from each other and to differentiate the specificities associated with their mysterious names. Because each aircraft guarantees you a unique flight experience of its kind , we have developed this short guide allowing you to choose your boat according to the aerial adventure that you dream!
Class 2: the pendulum ulm Class 3: ULM Multiaxe Class 4: ULM Autogire
Class 2: the pendulum ULM
We start this list with an ultra-light from the class of pulma , or ultra-light glider with auxiliary motorization . ULM subclass subclass grouping together classes 1 to 3 and of which the lightest pendulum is part, they are characterized by a total maximum mass less than 170 kilograms and a maximum power continues at most equal to 25 kW in single.
The pendulum is a motorized aircraft similar to a deltaplane , except that its suspension is ensured by a Motor positioned at the rear of a cart attached to the semi-rigid sail that you know well. It takes its name from its operating system, since its Delta wing acts as a pendulum supporting its center of gravity: the cart. In terms of regulation, it is limited to a conventional landing speed 65 km/h, at a maximum power of 45 kW and a mass of 300 kilograms (respectively 60 kW and 450 kg for a two -seater).
The major difference between the pendulum and the other classes of ULM is that The cart is fully open : The flight experience is then directly in contact with air, in the manner of a deltaplane! Since no wall is obscured your vision and thanks to the pendulum movements of the aircraft, the class 2 ultra-light is ideal for the panoramic flights and the strong sensations . bri />
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Class 3: Multiaxe ULM
The multiaxe is the heaviest ultra-light in the class of pulma : it takes its name from the Three axes of flight control which He has. If his name does not tell us much about his pace, in reality, he corresponds to a small aircraft forced .
In terms of legal characteristics, the multiaxe is defined as an aircraft to which is attached a fixed wing , and not semi-rigid (which commonly, we call wings). It is limited to 70 km/h at a minimum flight of flight in landing configuration, at a maximum power of 65 kW in single -seater (80 kW in two -seater) and a maximum weight of 330 kg or 500 kilograms in two -seater. << BR />
It differs from other gliders by its more comfortable character . Indeed, it has a closed cockpit , guaranteeing a baptism experience more like aviation than a deltaplane flight. Lighter and consuming less than small classic planes, the Trois-Axe is more affordable than large models, making it an attractive choice if you are looking for a comfort adventure.
Class 4: ULM Autogire
autogire , autogyre or gyrocopter , three different spelling to designate a single machine with a small helicopter! Invented in Spain, the autogire has a so-called free wing , that is to say a propeller activated by a rotor generally placed at the rear of the aircraft.
Please note, it is to distinguish from the ULM helicopter , which corresponds to class 6 of ultra-light. Unlike that of its big brother, the Rotor of the Autogire is mainly activated by the force of the wind generated by the speed in flight: it is therefore unable to fly in stationary, while the helicopter will have no problem make a manner. Gradually replaced by class 6 ULMs, the autogire guarantees you a journey back in time, at the time when helicopters did not yet exist: an authentic and exotic experience in perspective. />
The number one of the autogires is their versatility ! Some have a closed cabin, others are fully open like pendulum. Whether you prefer comfort or soft rocking on your face, the gyrocopter offers you an experience suitable for all the adventurers of the great air .
In terms of its characteristics, it has a maximum power of 85 kW in single and 105 kW in two -seater. The regulations in force in France limit its mass with passenger to 330 kilograms (550 kg in two -seater).
In summary, What distinguishes the different classes of ULM is the flight experience that awaits you! If these vary slightly in terms of maximum power and speed, we assure you that you will not be frustrated aboard a pendulum or terrified in the seat of an autogyr. The question you need to ask yourself is if you prefer to have your nose in the wind and a panoramic view of the clouds or swap the thrills of Bustracks against the comfort of the cabin of a multiaxe.
And why not taste each of the models during a three -step baptism ? Now that ultra-légers no longer have any secrets for you, discover All ULM flight offers available in France .
