ULM Class 3 (Multiaxe) Pilot Training
Duration
4 weeks
Level
Beginner
Certification
ULM Pilot Licence (DGAC)
Course Overview
Class 3 ULM (3-axis ultralight / multiaxe) is the flagship category of modern light aviation. A 3-axis ultralight is piloted using standard airplane flight controls (pitch, roll, yaw), but benefits from a flexible, streamlined regulatory framework centered on pilot responsibility.
Why choose a ULM License over a PPL or LAPL?
• Cost Efficiency: With significantly lower hourly operating costs (fuel consumption of 12-14 L/h Mogas) and an average training time of 25 to 35 flight hours to reach check-ride standard, ULM is the most affordable route to powered flight.
• Simplified Medical Requirements: Unlike PPL or LAPL which require Class 2 certified aviation medical examinations, ULM flight requires a simple medical fitness certificate issued by your general practitioner (GP).
• Lifetime Validity: The French DGAC ULM pilot license does not expire and requires no formal revalidation flight checks every two years. Flight currency is maintained based on actual flying experience and pilot self-assessment.
• Field Access Freedom: Ability to operate from small airfields, private ULM strips, and mountain altisurfaces often inaccessible to traditional General Aviation aircraft.
Course Syllabus
ULM Theoretical Knowledge (Common Core & Class 3 Specific)
Comprehensive ground instruction covering meteorology, aerodynamics, French DGAC air regulations, aircraft systems (Rotax 912 engine, carbon airframe), weight and balance, and altimetry.
Flight Handling & Precision Maneuvers
Mastering 3-axis control coordination (roll, pitch, yaw), straight and level flight, steep turns, slow flight, stall recognition/recovery, and precision stick-and-rudder handling on the ATEC 321 Faeta.
Circuit Pattern & Touch-and-Goes (LFNF)
Intensive pattern work on Vinon's asphalt and grass runways: glidepath control, flap management, crosswind landing techniques, go-arounds, and precision landings.
Emergency Procedures & Safety Operations
Practical training for simulated engine failures, forced landing trajectories (PTS/PTU), airframe ballistic parachute system operation (BRS/Galaxy GRS), and emergency checklists.
VFR Cross-Country Navigation & Mountain Awareness
Flight planning, fuel calculations, VFR navigation tracking, radiotelephony communications in French/English VFR at LFNF, and introduction to flight near mountain terrain.
Solo Flights & License Endorsement
Instructor evaluation followed by the student's first solo flight, solo circuit consolidation, and cross-country solo flights leading to official DGAC ULM Class 3 license issuance.
Updated:
Requirements
- 1. Minimum age: 15 years old (for solo flight and license issuance)
- 2. Medical fitness certificate for light sports aircraft / ULM (from GP)
- 3. Passed DGAC ULM common theoretical exam (MCQ)
- 4. Valid FFPLUM membership and insurance
- 5. Maximum pilot weight: 90 kg
Investment
Full pilot license course (flight hours + dual instruction): €3,500 to €5,500 (depending on total flight hours required to reach solo and check-ride standard, avg. 25-35h) Or 185 euros per flight hour, including instructor services and fuel.