However, these are not the only microlight aircraft available, The legal definition of a microlight is actually quite complicated, and is defined by a number of different characteristics such as weight, stall speed, age, type etc.

In the UK, a microlight aircraft is a lightweight aeroplane designed mainly for recreational flying. Microlights are popular because they are:

Relatively simple to fly

More affordable than larger aircraft

Ideal for leisure flying and training

Despite their light weight, microlights are fully regulated aircraft and must meet strict safety and performance rules.

How Many People Can Fly in a Microlight?

One of the key parts of the UK microlight definition is seating.

A microlight can have no more than two seats
This usually means:

One pilot and one passenger, or

One student pilot and one instructor

Any aircraft with more than two seats cannot be classed as a microlight, regardless of size or weight.

Microlight Weight Limits in the UK

Another important part of the definition is maximum take-off mass (MTOM), which is the maximum weight an aircraft can safely take off at.

In the UK, microlights fall into two broad groups:

Traditional Microlights

These are very lightweight aircraft, often associated with early microlight designs and many flexwing aircraft.

Light Sport Microlights

Modern regulations now allow microlights to be heavier, provided they remain slow-flying and easy to handle.

Current UK limits are:

Up to 600 kg for land-based microlights

Up to 650 kg for amphibious or float-equipped microlights

These higher limits allow for better safety features, stronger structures, and increased comfort.

Why Speed Matters in Microlight Rules

Weight alone does not define a microlight. UK regulations also limit how fast a microlight can fly at low speeds.

Microlights must have a low stall speed, which means:

They fly safely at slower speeds

They can take off and land in shorter distances

They are more forgiving for new pilots

This low-speed requirement is one of the main reasons microlights are suitable for beginners.

What Types of Aircraft Can Be Microlights?

Several different aircraft designs can meet the UK microlight definition, including:

• Flexwing (weight-shift) microlights – controlled by shifting weight relative to the wing
• 3-axis (fixed-wing) microlights – flown using conventional controls
• Powered parachutes (paratrikes) – using a parachute-style wing

As long as the aircraft meets the seat, weight, and speed limits, it can be legally classified as a microlight.

How Are Microlights Regulated in the UK?

Microlights in the UK are regulated nationally by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Many microlight aircraft are administered through organisations such as the British Microlight Aircraft Association (BMAA).

This national system allows:

Simplified aircraft approval

Lower operating and maintenance costs

A strong safety framework tailored to recreational flying

Pilots must hold a microlight licence appropriate to the type of microlight they fly.

What Is Not a Microlight?

An aircraft is not a microlight if it:

Has more than two seats

Exceeds the permitted maximum weight

Does not meet low-speed performance limits

Is certified solely under international airline-style regulations

Some light aeroplanes may look similar but fall into different regulatory categories.

Summary: The UK Definition of a Microlight

In simple terms, a microlight in the UK is:

• A two-seat maximum aircraft
• With strict weight limits
• Designed to fly safely at low speeds
• Regulated under UK national aviation rules

These characteristics make microlights one of the most accessible and enjoyable ways to learn to fly and experience aviation.