Ultralight lessons?

[Hawkeye313]

Okay guys, I need some opinions.  Due to financial reasons (house and vechicle payments, wife in school, and my overpaid government position  ::)) it's gonna be a while before I can swing getting my private ticket.  I started thinking about maybe trying ultralights.  I figure it's gotta be cheaper and easier to start out on.  Can anyone give me a idea about the cost and requirements? I live in the Southeast  United States (I figure the U.K. will have different figures).  Thanks

[beaky]

You might also consider the Recreational Pilot certificate- can't remember the details, but it's basically a pared-down version of the PP. More limitations, but probably a lot cheaper to acquire.
On the other hand, ultralights look like fun, and even owning one is more within reach for the average person. Also will probably give you a better grasp of the basics of flight.

[chomp_rock]

Actually, the rec. license costs about the same as a PPL.

You may want to look at this though: http://www.sportpilot.org/

[Ben_M_K]

Don't get a rec. license. Get the Sport Pilot license. Very cool...

[Rocket_Bird]

Here it costs as much as 4000 dollars CAD cheaper getting a recreational than a private.  Though im thinking it would probably be more worth while getting your private ticket... as you get to fly pretty much any single piston powered aircraft.  

I mean I have financial troubles too, and you do have to do a lot of math to balance the costs.  But hey, theres schools where you can pay as you go, and you are not obligated to fly so many times a week, thats really up to you.  Of course if you only fly once a month, you better be putting your time in Flight Simulator!!  ;D

[StrutterGunner]

Im getting my rec liscence at the Brampton Flying Club. Its gonna cost about 4300 CAD to get, but still quite  a bit cheaper than the 6500 for a private. Also, thats if you train in a C-152. I plan to get the licence on the 152 and then convert to taildragger and fly nothing but. Theres a great little Supercub there that will do nicely.

[Saratoga]

For the long term if you are planning on following flying throughout your life, save and go for the PPL. As said, MUCH more worth it in the long run.