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"Jim Logajan" <JamesL@Lugoj.com> wrote in message
news:Xns9906AFDB469D7JamesLLugojcom@216.168.3.30.. .
> For some reason I keep thinking it would be interesting and maybe even
> useful to start flight training in a Part 103 ultralight. But since I'd
> eventually want to acquire a private pilot certificate I'm not sure that
> route provides any advantages, so I shelve the idea. Then it resurfaces
> like a weed. ;-)
>
> The theory I've heard from some proponents of starting with ultralights is
> that you concentrate your efforts mostly on learning to fly. Learning how
> to stay Part 103 legal seems relatively straightforward - and the tests
> don't appear hard. ;-) It is even alleged to be more fun to learn that
> way.
> :-)
>
> Anyone who first learned in ultralights and then gone on to a PPL and have
> any insight to share? Or gotten a PPL and then transitioned to ultralights
> and has some insight to share from that perspective?
>
> Thanks!

I began and have significant experience xc soaring with hang gliders, but
was always reluctant to fly any of the weight shift or 2 or 3 axis UL
aircraft. UL design has improved, but IMHO does not come close to the
standards of design excellence found in certificated aircraft.

Before beginning to fly sailplanes, I did do spin training in a taildrager
both as an introduction to 3 axis control and of slow flight, stalls and
full spins. We took it up to the level of full spin recovery on a heading,
(the instructor called the heading after full spin development). I
continued flight training (including lots more spins) in sailplanes but
determined that I needed (lots) more training and practice with landings so
I found a school with a Citabria (stick, taildrager, aerobatic) to learn
more about landings.

IMHO, the type and quality of your instruction is much more important than
the type (quality is a basic requirement) of aircraft. Some aircraft are
more fun than others. For regulatory purposes, an 'aircraft' is
specifically defined, AFAIK most piloting in 'aircraft' is valid for total
time licensing requirements, but may not reduce dual instruction or other
requirements, YMMV. A hang glider is not defined as an 'aircraft' and as
such does not require licensing or registration, YMMV. The applicability of
UL experience towards airman's licensing will vary by local regulation.

IMHO there is no such thing as bad airtime or training, get as much of the
good stuff as you can afford. Some people need clear goals but IMHO the
journey is much more important than any artificial or arbitrary goal. It
can reduce costs and requirement for medicals if you declare your goal to be
an RPL (SP?) rather than PPL. IMHO the standard of instruction (and the
curriculum) is more often MUCH MUCH higher at a school flying certificated
aircraft and regulated by TC or FAA, YMMV. Unless you purchase your own
plane, your training may form the majority of your aviation experience,
which is appropriate since 'you are always a student in an aeroplane'.

Happy landings,