Microlight or Class A ?

[fosteri]

Hello Folks
I am currently building a KITFOX Mark 2 with a friend , as we progress we are wondering whether to register as a Group A or as a microlight ?
Can any one out there tell me the advantages and disadvantages
What makes and aircraft a microlight and what are the limitations over a group A

I would be grateful for any helpful advice on this matter

Happy New Year

Iain Foster

[rogcal]

Off the top of my head I can think of two reasons to go Grp A.

No requirement for a noise certificate and acceptance at most airfields (still a few airfields with a blanket ban on aircraft registered in the microlight category).

I'm sure there will be others along shortly with more reasons to go Grp A!

Good luck with the build.

[Bill McCarthy]

If the type (as a microlight) already has a noise certificate for the established engine / propellor combinations there is no need to get another. If I was building though, without the slightest doubt, I'd stick with the LAA for ongoing annual permit renewal etc rather than the other body.

[Nick Allen]

Although there is the morass of Annex II/EASA pilot licensing still to negotiate, logging hours on Group A might prove useful in some instances.

[John Price]

I believe that you can use mogas with alcohol in a microlight, where as, this is a no no in group A aircraft.

This might make getting fuel easier.

John.

[2greens1red]

Personal (and aircraft) insurance costs may be worth considering. Talking to a broker today about a quotation, there was a considerable loading for microlight.

[AlanR]

Also don't forget as a microlight you have an aircraft empty weight limit of 250kg and mauw of 450kg.
So if your build is heavy and takes it over the 250kg empty you will have no option but to register it as a Group A.
If you do register it ' Group A' the mauw will be whatever the LAA deem that particular aircraft to be above 450kg.