Simviation Forums

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.