100% training .. the amount of times I’ve flown with people in different aircraft as well as the flex give them controls and within literally seconds the aircraft is out of control not stupidly but enough to suggest that they wouldn’t get it back down on the ground safely. Therefore I would say Training is essential….
The answer is yes, definitely for all the obvious reasons🤔😊👍✌️ It's all to do with the four stages of learning; Unconsciously Unaware, Consciously Unaware, Consciously Aware, Unconsciously Aware. And perishable skills, versus muscle conditioning and memory.
Hi Muso, I hope you are well? Those are some very valid points and I thank you for your comment. It never ceases to amaze me that people just think they can just work it out for themselves.
Absolutely, just because you CAN fly these without training doesn't mean you SHOULD. Also I found the exact issue from playing Flight Sim a lot and the muscle memory when I first started flying a Flex. Was getting really frustrated with myself so strapped a chrome bar to my yoke , reversed the pitch controls and downloaded a Flex in FS2020. After a few days the muscle memory was reversed and found my flying to be greatly improved.
Hi Martin, I'm glad you found a solution to helping your muscle memory with the yoke. I can't remember if you are still having lessons or are all solo now? I do like your "just because you CAN fly these without training doesn't mean you SHOULD" line.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Hey Giles. Still training, I have a total of 18 hours logged with 6 solo so far. Just waiting on the weather so I can get my 2 solo cross country flights done. That will leave me with GST and Nav exam left. Loving flying and can't wait to get my own aircraft.
Hi Giles. Seeing videos posted by pilots like yourself or Ben, people could get the idea that flying the PeaBee or Adam is so easy that training isn't needed. "How hard can it be" they might say. But you need confidence to be able to handle all situations, and that only comes with knowledge and practice - so, yes, training is absolutely necessary. But the wonderful thing about these aircraft is that they are totally deregulated and if it were not for that, I would almost certainly not have got back into flying again (in my 70s). I completed the NPPL tasks on the GT450, but not having to take the exams and the annual checks provided the incentive for me to get going. Cheers John
Hi John, good to see you here again. I completely agree with your comment and I think the joy of RUclips is that people can see the fun we have, however, it also give people a false sense of the learning that has to take place to be a safe pilot. Hopefully wheels up soon for you.
Sound effects always help 😃 Training is a good idea 💡 An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of parts. Or a little money up front is much cheaper than hospital and airframe bills.
Deffo training required you wouldn't ride a push bike without some sort of training first. Nice flight Giles and that wind looked like it was making you work. Very enjoyable video, thank you.
Hi Terry, there definitely seems to be a concensus that training should be a part of most forms of aviation. Its just the odd free sprit that doesn't want to conform. 😊. It was a little spicy as times but all manageable.
I enjoy your videos, and you've taught me a lot. I think training is very important. There are many ways you can get yourself into trouble flying a trike, and without someone to teach you what you don't know, the results can be tragic. Cheers!
Hi Neil, the Sub70 flying sits near the paramotor world which has a heavy bias towards doing it all yourself. But as I says, you don't know what you don't know. Never stop learning.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 completely agree, in the end it’s supposed to be a fun, challenging and an exciting pastime. I kind of struggle calling it a sport, as I associate sport with out of breath short wearing sweatiness. Though to be fair some of my landings can induce at least two out of three of the above 😂. To get back to the point, it’s the impact on the wider community of someone, untrained, crashing and damaging themselves or worse. It just opens the door to the likes of the CAA, airfields and others that want to see us gone. While accidents will always happen, why not reduce the likelihood and potential impact, for the sake of maybe a 10/15 hour course that will lead to a lifetime of fun.
Great vid as always buddy. As you will know, I'm 100% for training - not only to help keep that pilot safe, but also the other pilots sharing that same air space, and the safety of those on the ground. I would also worry that without training and a higher rate of accidents as a result could push the CAA to withdraw the exemption, meaning all sub70 pilots would require the NPPL(M) to continue flying - so it's in everyone's interest that training is pretty much a requirement!
Being self-taught on paramotor 5 years on and I am still learning. Not so much with the wong itself. But more so meteorology. I'm now trying to sit my bhpa exam. I have appi and pmc, but apparently, that isn't enough for my local club. But I would say if I went that route first off, I would have learnt a lot more, flown more, and been more confident in my flying ability and areas that I fly
Hi Harry, I did watch your journey and it's so true, "you don't know what you don't know". Imagine I sat you. In a Sub70 flex and you tired to work it out for yourself, you'd probably get off the ground but after that it's 50/50 if you'd make it back safely.
@Golf Foxtrot 22 I learn by doing. I taught myself mechanics. How to drive. How to ride motorbikes, weld paint etc. But you are right. It's easy to say I get the controls, but it needs to be second nature. In that split second, something goes wrong. You don't have time to make the wrong decision or trial and error.
Exactly, when there is risk to life, somethings need to be taught. As Ben Ashman said to me, the cost of the repair is generally more expensive than the lessons it would have taken to avoid it in the first place. With people spending 12 to15k on a machine, the small cost of training is nothing.
Sub 70 is similar to the American Part 103, there is no requirement for training. But, as you rightly pointed out, damage to an aircraft can cost more than the training. Not to mention the risk to life and limb. I would like to see a training sylibus that is simple to follow,, but produces a competent pilot for local flying from a grass strip. Anything more intense will be covered under the full PPL.
Hi Simon, I'd agree, there needs to be some form or formal training but I'd also say most of the lessons in the Full NPPL also apply to Sub70. Just because they are light doesn't mean you can't get in a bit of pickle, if that's a polite way of putting it. 😁.
I've had my Adam for over two years now and still haven't flown it. I've been taking lessons in a Northwing 2 seater. The only place for training is a 4 1/2 hour drive so I've only been able to make it out there for a couple three day stretches due to my obnoxious work schedule. If I had tried to fly my Adam without any training I probably wouldn't be here to comment. We don't have insurance requirements for them ( ultralights) here in the U.S. I looked, and no aviation insurance company would even write a policy for it. I got a new job, with a better schedule and alot more time off, so I should be able to get into it full force this spring!
Ed, great to hear from you and I hope you are keeping well. I really hope that this spring give you many more opportunities to get flying and fly your lovely Adam trike.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 I am interested in flying flex wing aircraft. Anything taking about how to fly or your experiences flying would be most interesting to me. Right now I am a PPC pilot.
I had 10 hours training in a quick before I flew my machine. I think it was money extremely well spent! My thoughts on this are it will sort itself out. There is a requirement for insurance. Now I think insurance companies may start to require some evidence of training before providing cover, as Bhpa currently do. The risk profile for someone without training is massively different. On another note, sub 70 is still an exemption, it hasn't been put into law as it were so could be withdrawn at any time. If the CAA see us sub70 pilots as a wrekless lot we may find ourself in the position of needing a full NPPL to fly.
Scott, you make some very compelling and factually correct statements. The Exemption has allowed so many to experience a different side of flying and we shouldn't take it for granted.
Will an insurance company in GB insure you if you can't provide proof of formal training? I believe everyone should get training. The only formal training I've had was in hang gliding back in 1986 - up to intermediate (hang 3) level . I believe (no proof) that most accidents are due to poor judgement and not lack of training. I've seen well trained pilots have accidents because of poor judgement. Thanks for taking us along on your engine test Giles. Awesome!
Hi wrdturkey, there are some insurance companies that will provide cover without proof of licence or training. I like your comment about judgement as that is, as you say, the route cause of most accidents. Additionally, I believe that a good training can help create thinking pilots. Glad you enjoyed the video.
A lovely video again Giles, and what a beautiful evening for flying! What are your runway go/no go wind speeds for the PeaBee. I’m looking for the direct xwind speed and the straight down the slot wind speed. Cheers 👌👍
Hi Kevin, it was probably my last evening flight of the year. The main limit is the X-wind ( 9mph) , I've operated in 15/18 but the issue with flexwing is the machine is most vulnerable while on the ground. I hope that answers your question. I'll add these to my list if you don't mind.
I don’t think there is a more docile, easier to fly aircraft than a Peabee. If you had to fly an aircraft without any training, it would be the one to go for. Having said that, I’d still recommend training on a two seat flex wing.
Hi Nick, the PeaBee is a very forgiving aircraft but I'm sure I could get it to misbehave. As you have said already, training on a 2 seat flex is recommended.
Hi Mindfulmunchkin, the Adam wing has been designed with soaring in mind and it's on my list of things to play with. I've only thermalled sailplanes, but I did try the Fox wing but it had some adverse yaw which made it more challenging. I hope that helps and thank you for your kind words on the content.
I agree with everyone else, you should get training. BUT, the problem is if you formalize it the explosion of bureaucratic paperwork follows. I am sure the paperwork in the hang/paragliding federation we have now equals the paperwork for America's F.F.A. at the end of the second world war, and it never stops growing. Aside from that you mentioned using 3 liters in a half hour, 6 liters an hour? Is that what you get? I am just starting to calculate the V-Lite's it seems to use 8 liters an hour, which I think makes the piston more of a syringe than a motor, it sucks up fuel and sprays it out!
Hi Blue, good to see you again in the comments section. Yes, there is a very fine line between mandating and encouraging. With my experience of the current flock of Sub70 aircraft, they almost perform alsmost like the microlights of the 90s. Some aspects of flight you could work our, others will get out of hand very quickly and need the required recovery actions. Regarding your fuel burn, I get about 5 litres and hour but I plan on 6. Flying and paperwork are always going to be hand in hand.
I'm not a pilot and would say you absolutely need training. They may glide well but you can still get into a terrible attitude that makes you basically a floppy stone!! Also, surely you need to know some basic rules of joining circuits and landing at airfields so you dont put other in danger. You will fly better if you understand whats going on with your machine. I can only relate it to racing and sprinting cars. You will be better if you understand things racing lines, like load transfer and circle of grip etc.
Hi Cliff, you raise some very valid points and most/all are covered through the natural process of learning to flying in the school environment. Its still amazing how many people don't know the basics and thus their airmanship is quite poor.
Its definitely possible to self train safely , but the ego has to have no say whatsoever in how you go about learning, because according to our egos were all professionals at everything and thats dangerous in any time let alone flying aircraft .I would do it without training but I'd get an experienced pilot who knows there stuff to fly my aircraft first and help me set it up and learn how to dial it in , and even then I'd have my reservations and proceed with extreme caution and I'm not unfamiliar with aviation , but a total rookie with a wallet full of money and dream to fly , it's a just a recipe for disaster . however I think that it's great that there's a form of aviation that doesn't require compulsory training and licences charged at ludicrous fees , and thats freedom and regardless of the safety and liability surrounding it, that freedom needs protecting at all cost. Anyone can still fly without first jumping through the man's hoops . And dangerous or not long may that be the case . Because it will be a sad day when its not .
In an ideal world it would be possible, but a good phrase is, "you don't know, what you don't know" and that is what will kill pilots. I hope you enjoyed the video nonetheless.
I do feel that most of the training manuals and regulations have been written in the blood of those who have learnt the hard way. I would not like to see sub 70kg having to be licenced, I do think that a basic training certificate will help ensure that regulation, do not end up being written in the blood of people relearning the hard way and for the rest of us having to pay high insurance, due to the cost of their learning.
Hi Algy, there are training systems in place, both the BMAA and BHPA have a system in place that has sign off at certain stages. The worrying bit is you can just go "no names" insurance company, get a policy and go fly. Have you seen this video before ruclips.net/video/-hRSUjJFmCc/видео.html ?
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Like most thing it is a balance and while training is needed it should be kept at the minimum or people will not pay for training. If the insurers cut the cost significantly for those who can prove training, then that might help but there are those who think they can learn everything from RUclips. I have seen the video a time ago.
In answer to your question at 7 secs in. Yes and it should be mandatorily included in the price of the machine, unless you can otherwise show competency. (That was the first thought that popped into my head)
Hi BJ, I think the issue with adding the cost of learning into the cost of the machine would make it very costly. I know of some pilots needing nearly 30 hours to be safe on a Sub70. The pay as you go method also allows for those that are very capable to get airbourne in a short time, thus saving costs.
I believe that any aircraft you should have training to fly. I think if you teach yourself on an ultralight, you have a death wish. You can't teach yourself on a flight Sim, and think you can fly. Flying a real aircraft the feel is different, sims can't simulate turbulence other nuts in the air, traffic, different types of airspace restricted and danger zones.
I'm glad you agree with my sentiment, but it still never ceases to amaze me who many will try. Hopefully there will be some future changes that wlll help all pilots.
Yes, most definitely for training to fly a sub 70, It’s an aircraft so the pilot should know how to operate it safely. You cannot ride a motorcycle without training so why should an aircraft be any different…?
It amazes me that anyone would even consider flying any type of aircraft without training. Maybe we should let natural selection take care of those individuals??
It cuts me how easily we denigrate that very human trait that gave birth to such sports/flight/anything extraordinary. The Fanz Reichelt's of the world are the heartbreaking reminder of the cost of progress and adventure when things go wrong. Training is indeed the way to go for the safest learning journeys, but I just can't bring myself to denigrate those who for "whatever" reason have the gumption and spine to stick out their neck into the unknown with so much at stake. If "natural selection" took all those people from us, who would we pimp all our secondhand adventures from? 😃
@@pimplequeen2 I see where you are coming from. Maybe I'm also seeing things from a different angle. The current crop of Sub70s are not really Foot launched powered hang glider with wheels, they are all flying significantly faster and are kind of microlights in sheeps clothing. Also the majority ( exception to every rule) that are learning to fly them have no foundation in hang gliding to understand the control mechanism, they are literally off the street and see a licence free way of getting in the air. I look with awe at the guys in this video about those that helped form the current style of hang glider we have now, ruclips.net/video/-hRSUjJFmCc/видео.html The point I took away from this video was that most of the individuals that started it, all ended up dying from flying accidents. I just want people to be safe and enjoy the flying freedoms we have.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 (The linked video) Ah, the good old days when it was as free as other dangerous sports like climbing, surfing, canoeing... Self-reliance, sharing info, learning as they went along and teaching each other :) (Plenty of people with "sanctioned" training get hurt) I don't disagree with the wisdom of training, that's not my point, I just struggle to look down my nose on those who chose a riskier path. You personally chose to trim your glider to 40mph, is there any reason why you would preferer to be restricted to 30mph to turn your wolf into a sheep? (To use your vernacular) Of course not, you want to be free to make your own "choices" and are willing to carry the weight of those choices.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 I think it is because, that is the plain truth, if I had taken off in my sub without flight training it could have been very painful ! let alone landing, then there's air law, a bimble about is fine but there are rules to safe flying as others use the airspace and finally ( this is why I just wrote 'yes' ) there's weather, lapse rates etc, thermals etc... a hang gliders dream, but a novice sub 70's nightmare, cheers. oops I have an edit... safe hour building with an instructor first and a bit of ground school too..... that'll do for now ;-)
Need training for all things aviation. Like you, I have paramotor experience. I've had trike training about 17 hours. Also I have been towed in the air with an ultralight on a hang glider with an instructor. Have you seen this? ruclips.net/video/rwD1jW2Ee5Q/видео.html . I like the fact that it is more like flying a hang glider than a trike. And, it is electric not gas. I think it is going to be a great alternative to trike flying.
Hi David, thank you for sharing the video link. Electric gives lots of opportunity and I hope the energy density gets better. It still surprises me that people that will try to fly Sub70 trikes without training.
You need training to fly a drone over 500g fgs 🤣 So yeah to training, more risk too life and limb. A lot of people can fly but it's deffo harder than learning to drive.
It's a topic that many seem to not understand. SUB70 comes from the lighter end where has been a long standing body that have all taught themselves to fly. The issue is that Sub70 Flexwing is close to the paramotor fraternity but more of the microlight performance. As a result, the aircraft will show you very quickly how is can get out of control needing the correct recovery techniques. On a different note, I did teach myself to fly model aircraft ending up with a 9kg 120mph jet turbine...🤣😜.
Hi Michael, it's a Peabee 2 on steroids. Micro Maintenance take the PB2 and put a whole load of custom modifications like wheel brakes on the rear mains, carbon Seat and other carbon parts and a Factory R engine to name just a few. It also comes with a Custom ADAM wing.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Giving serious consideration to an Adam. What;s the provisional cost? Any difference in performance or a bling makeover? I built the first 64 Doodlebugs BTW.
@@offshoretinker the engine is significantly more powerful and performance tuned. The wing is the same just a different design. Wow Dooddlebugs, a definite mark in time.
Another great video Giles. I don't know why anyone wouldn't want to do training. Why not learn more about self, air rules and machine? Training for me were some of the best days of my life. I was gutted when I got my licence! 🙂
Hi Paul, the Sub70 sits very close to the paramotor world who have in the early days, all been self taught. The issue with the new breed of Sub70 machines, is their performance is closer to the original microlights and can have the same ability to get the pilot into trouble. I do agree with you, I love learning and always like learning from other pilots. It was one of the reasons I went down the instructional route, to learn more and raise my flying standard.
100% training .. the amount of times I’ve flown with people in different aircraft as well as the flex give them controls and within literally seconds the aircraft is out of control not stupidly but enough to suggest that they wouldn’t get it back down on the ground safely. Therefore I would say Training is essential….
Hi Clive good chatting and I completely agree with your comment.
The answer is yes, definitely for all the obvious reasons🤔😊👍✌️
It's all to do with the four stages of learning; Unconsciously Unaware, Consciously Unaware, Consciously Aware, Unconsciously Aware. And perishable skills, versus muscle conditioning and memory.
Hi Muso, I hope you are well? Those are some very valid points and I thank you for your comment. It never ceases to amaze me that people just think they can just work it out for themselves.
Absolutely, just because you CAN fly these without training doesn't mean you SHOULD.
Also I found the exact issue from playing Flight Sim a lot and the muscle memory when I first started flying a Flex. Was getting really frustrated with myself so strapped a chrome bar to my yoke , reversed the pitch controls and downloaded a Flex in FS2020. After a few days the muscle memory was reversed and found my flying to be greatly improved.
Hi Martin, I'm glad you found a solution to helping your muscle memory with the yoke. I can't remember if you are still having lessons or are all solo now? I do like your "just because you CAN fly these without training doesn't mean you SHOULD" line.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Hey Giles. Still training, I have a total of 18 hours logged with 6 solo so far. Just waiting on the weather so I can get my 2 solo cross country flights done. That will leave me with GST and Nav exam left. Loving flying and can't wait to get my own aircraft.
Hi Giles. Seeing videos posted by pilots like yourself or Ben, people could get the idea that flying the PeaBee or Adam is so easy that training isn't needed. "How hard can it be" they might say. But you need confidence to be able to handle all situations, and that only comes with knowledge and practice - so, yes, training is absolutely necessary. But the wonderful thing about these aircraft is that they are totally deregulated and if it were not for that, I would almost certainly not have got back into flying again (in my 70s). I completed the NPPL tasks on the GT450, but not having to take the exams and the annual checks provided the incentive for me to get going. Cheers John
Hi John, good to see you here again. I completely agree with your comment and I think the joy of RUclips is that people can see the fun we have, however, it also give people a false sense of the learning that has to take place to be a safe pilot. Hopefully wheels up soon for you.
Sound effects always help 😃
Training is a good idea 💡
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of parts.
Or a little money up front is much cheaper than hospital and airframe bills.
Sound Effects, did you want them or did I add them?
@@GolfFoxtrot22 you made them as you were flying - I find they help me too. 😆
@@GolfFoxtrot22 ruclips.net/video/mrVIE_kCq5U/видео.html
Deffo training required you wouldn't ride a push bike without some sort of training first. Nice flight Giles and that wind looked like it was making you work. Very enjoyable video, thank you.
Hi Terry, there definitely seems to be a concensus that training should be a part of most forms of aviation. Its just the odd free sprit that doesn't want to conform. 😊. It was a little spicy as times but all manageable.
I agree with aircraft but a push bike?! Really? 😂😂
I enjoy your videos, and you've taught me a lot. I think training is very important. There are many ways you can get yourself into trouble flying a trike, and without someone to teach you what you don't know, the results can be tragic.
Cheers!
Hi Sam, your last sentence is so very true, its why I use the phrase, " You don't know, what you don't know".
Good question, in my view yes. Helps keep it safe for everyone in the air.
Hi Neil, the Sub70 flying sits near the paramotor world which has a heavy bias towards doing it all yourself. But as I says, you don't know what you don't know. Never stop learning.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 completely agree, in the end it’s supposed to be a fun, challenging and an exciting pastime. I kind of struggle calling it a sport, as I associate sport with out of breath short wearing sweatiness. Though to be fair some of my landings can induce at least two out of three of the above 😂. To get back to the point, it’s the impact on the wider community of someone, untrained, crashing and damaging themselves or worse. It just opens the door to the likes of the CAA, airfields and others that want to see us gone. While accidents will always happen, why not reduce the likelihood and potential impact, for the sake of maybe a 10/15 hour course that will lead to a lifetime of fun.
Great vid as always buddy. As you will know, I'm 100% for training - not only to help keep that pilot safe, but also the other pilots sharing that same air space, and the safety of those on the ground. I would also worry that without training and a higher rate of accidents as a result could push the CAA to withdraw the exemption, meaning all sub70 pilots would require the NPPL(M) to continue flying - so it's in everyone's interest that training is pretty much a requirement!
No truer word spoken. You know my thoughts and I jsut want people to be safe, which is everything you said.
Being self-taught on paramotor 5 years on and I am still learning. Not so much with the wong itself. But more so meteorology. I'm now trying to sit my bhpa exam. I have appi and pmc, but apparently, that isn't enough for my local club. But I would say if I went that route first off, I would have learnt a lot more, flown more, and been more confident in my flying ability and areas that I fly
Hi Harry, I did watch your journey and it's so true, "you don't know what you don't know". Imagine I sat you. In a Sub70 flex and you tired to work it out for yourself, you'd probably get off the ground but after that it's 50/50 if you'd make it back safely.
@Golf Foxtrot 22
I learn by doing. I taught myself mechanics. How to drive. How to ride motorbikes, weld paint etc. But you are right. It's easy to say I get the controls, but it needs to be second nature. In that split second, something goes wrong. You don't have time to make the wrong decision or trial and error.
Exactly, when there is risk to life, somethings need to be taught. As Ben Ashman said to me, the cost of the repair is generally more expensive than the lessons it would have taken to avoid it in the first place. With people spending 12 to15k on a machine, the small cost of training is nothing.
Interesting learning about the rules around flying in other countries. Thanks Giles 🤙
Hi Tom, I think most UK paramotor pilots can quote FAR103 more than our UK Air Navigation Order :). Sub70 kg aircraft has transformed my flying.
YES to training. Utterly daft not to. My downwind checks are SHIT. 🙂 Works for me.
What does each letter stand for?
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Security (incl runway clear) Height Instruments (temps/fuel) Trim
Sub 70 is similar to the American Part 103, there is no requirement for training. But, as you rightly pointed out, damage to an aircraft can cost more than the training. Not to mention the risk to life and limb. I would like to see a training sylibus that is simple to follow,, but produces a competent pilot for local flying from a grass strip. Anything more intense will be covered under the full PPL.
Hi Simon, I'd agree, there needs to be some form or formal training but I'd also say most of the lessons in the Full NPPL also apply to Sub70. Just because they are light doesn't mean you can't get in a bit of pickle, if that's a polite way of putting it. 😁.
I've had my Adam for over two years now and still haven't flown it. I've been taking lessons in a Northwing 2 seater. The only place for training is a 4 1/2 hour drive so I've only been able to make it out there for a couple three day stretches due to my obnoxious work schedule. If I had tried to fly my Adam without any training I probably wouldn't be here to comment. We don't have insurance requirements for them ( ultralights) here in the U.S. I looked, and no aviation insurance company would even write a policy for it. I got a new job, with a better schedule and alot more time off, so I should be able to get into it full force this spring!
Ed, great to hear from you and I hope you are keeping well. I really hope that this spring give you many more opportunities to get flying and fly your lovely Adam trike.
I enjoy your flex wing videos.
Hi Robert, I'm glad you enjoy them. Any particular part or style of content?
@@GolfFoxtrot22 I am interested in flying flex wing aircraft. Anything taking about how to fly or your experiences flying would be most interesting to me. Right now I am a PPC pilot.
"You don't know what you don't know, untill you know it" my favourite quote for these sports. Great video buddy! 😀
Hi Kyle, I'm glad you enjoyed it bud.
I had 10 hours training in a quick before I flew my machine. I think it was money extremely well spent!
My thoughts on this are it will sort itself out. There is a requirement for insurance. Now I think insurance companies may start to require some evidence of training before providing cover, as Bhpa currently do.
The risk profile for someone without training is massively different.
On another note, sub 70 is still an exemption, it hasn't been put into law as it were so could be withdrawn at any time.
If the CAA see us sub70 pilots as a wrekless lot we may find ourself in the position of needing a full NPPL to fly.
Scott, you make some very compelling and factually correct statements. The Exemption has allowed so many to experience a different side of flying and we shouldn't take it for granted.
Will an insurance company in GB insure you if you can't provide proof of formal training? I believe everyone should get training. The only formal training I've had was in hang gliding back in 1986 - up to intermediate (hang 3) level . I believe (no proof) that most accidents are due to poor judgement and not lack of training. I've seen well trained pilots have accidents because of poor judgement. Thanks for taking us along on your engine test Giles. Awesome!
Hi wrdturkey, there are some insurance companies that will provide cover without proof of licence or training. I like your comment about judgement as that is, as you say, the route cause of most accidents. Additionally, I believe that a good training can help create thinking pilots. Glad you enjoyed the video.
A lovely video again Giles, and what a beautiful evening for flying!
What are your runway go/no go wind speeds for the PeaBee. I’m looking for the direct xwind speed and the straight down the slot wind speed. Cheers 👌👍
Hi Kevin, it was probably my last evening flight of the year. The main limit is the X-wind ( 9mph) , I've operated in 15/18 but the issue with flexwing is the machine is most vulnerable while on the ground. I hope that answers your question. I'll add these to my list if you don't mind.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Thanks Giles, your answer was exactly what I was looking for 👌👍
I don’t think there is a more docile, easier to fly aircraft than a Peabee. If you had to fly an aircraft without any training, it would be the one to go for. Having said that, I’d still recommend training on a two seat flex wing.
Hi Nick, the PeaBee is a very forgiving aircraft but I'm sure I could get it to misbehave. As you have said already, training on a 2 seat flex is recommended.
PDF of check lists would be good Giles.
Hi Gerry, Just email Michelle, she'll send you a copy. :)
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Thanks Giles, see you when my knee heals.
Get well soon.
Yet another pleasant interlude, yes I think there should be mandatory training. Take care Giles.
It never ceases to amaze me how some generations don't want to follow the hard learnt lessons of those that have gone before them.
Hey Giles, can you soar a Beabee with the Adam? have you had tried it over the years ? Sorry to ask if it's been covered before , btw awesome content.
Hi Mindfulmunchkin, the Adam wing has been designed with soaring in mind and it's on my list of things to play with. I've only thermalled sailplanes, but I did try the Fox wing but it had some adverse yaw which made it more challenging. I hope that helps and thank you for your kind words on the content.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 I've been researching a lot over the last few weeks. The Adam is getting to the top of my list. Thanks for the info, Lisa 😀
@@mindfulmunchkin1215 I'm glad that the videos have been helping Lisa.
I agree with everyone else, you should get training. BUT, the problem is if you formalize it the explosion of bureaucratic paperwork follows. I am sure the paperwork in the hang/paragliding federation we have now equals the paperwork for America's F.F.A. at the end of the second world war, and it never stops growing. Aside from that you mentioned using 3 liters in a half hour, 6 liters an hour? Is that what you get? I am just starting to calculate the V-Lite's it seems to use 8 liters an hour, which I think makes the piston more of a syringe than a motor, it sucks up fuel and sprays it out!
Hi Blue, good to see you again in the comments section. Yes, there is a very fine line between mandating and encouraging. With my experience of the current flock of Sub70 aircraft, they almost perform alsmost like the microlights of the 90s. Some aspects of flight you could work our, others will get out of hand very quickly and need the required recovery actions. Regarding your fuel burn, I get about 5 litres and hour but I plan on 6. Flying and paperwork are always going to be hand in hand.
How about a PDF of your checklists please
I'm not sure how I could get a PDF out on a RUclips video.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 share it via Google docs?
I'm not a pilot and would say you absolutely need training. They may glide well but you can still get into a terrible attitude that makes you basically a floppy stone!! Also, surely you need to know some basic rules of joining circuits and landing at airfields so you dont put other in danger. You will fly better if you understand whats going on with your machine. I can only relate it to racing and sprinting cars. You will be better if you understand things racing lines, like load transfer and circle of grip etc.
Hi Cliff, you raise some very valid points and most/all are covered through the natural process of learning to flying in the school environment. Its still amazing how many people don't know the basics and thus their airmanship is quite poor.
Its definitely possible to self train safely , but the ego has to have no say whatsoever in how you go about learning, because according to our egos were all professionals at everything and thats dangerous in any time let alone flying aircraft .I would do it without training but I'd get an experienced pilot who knows there stuff to fly my aircraft first and help me set it up and learn how to dial it in , and even then I'd have my reservations and proceed with extreme caution and I'm not unfamiliar with aviation , but a total rookie with a wallet full of money and dream to fly , it's a just a recipe for disaster .
however I think that it's great that there's a form of aviation that doesn't require compulsory training and licences charged at ludicrous fees , and thats freedom and regardless of the safety and liability surrounding it, that freedom needs protecting at all cost. Anyone can still fly without first jumping through the man's hoops . And dangerous or not long may that be the case . Because it will be a sad day when its not .
In an ideal world it would be possible, but a good phrase is, "you don't know, what you don't know" and that is what will kill pilots. I hope you enjoyed the video nonetheless.
I do feel that most of the training manuals and regulations have been written in the blood of those who have learnt the hard way. I would not like to see sub 70kg having to be licenced, I do think that a basic training certificate will help ensure that regulation, do not end up being written in the blood of people relearning the hard way and for the rest of us having to pay high insurance, due to the cost of their learning.
Hi Algy, there are training systems in place, both the BMAA and BHPA have a system in place that has sign off at certain stages. The worrying bit is you can just go "no names" insurance company, get a policy and go fly. Have you seen this video before ruclips.net/video/-hRSUjJFmCc/видео.html ?
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Like most thing it is a balance and while training is needed it should be kept at the minimum or people will not pay for training. If the insurers cut the cost significantly for those who can prove training, then that might help but there are those who think they can learn everything from RUclips. I have seen the video a time ago.
Where is the list of gear you use or recommend for newbies? I think ones life is worth training....the same applies to any extreme sport.
Hi Sharon, all the kit I personally use is listed in the video description. Beyond that I'm not sure what you mean by Gear, but I'll try and help.
In answer to your question at 7 secs in. Yes and it should be mandatorily included in the price of the machine, unless you can otherwise show competency. (That was the first thought that popped into my head)
Hi BJ, I think the issue with adding the cost of learning into the cost of the machine would make it very costly. I know of some pilots needing nearly 30 hours to be safe on a Sub70. The pay as you go method also allows for those that are very capable to get airbourne in a short time, thus saving costs.
I believe that any aircraft you should have training to fly. I think if you teach yourself on an ultralight, you have a death wish. You can't teach yourself on a flight Sim, and think you can fly. Flying a real aircraft the feel is different, sims can't simulate turbulence other nuts in the air, traffic, different types of airspace restricted and danger zones.
I'm glad you agree with my sentiment, but it still never ceases to amaze me who many will try. Hopefully there will be some future changes that wlll help all pilots.
👍👍
Yes, most definitely for training to fly a sub 70, It’s an aircraft so the pilot should know how to operate it safely. You cannot ride a motorcycle without training so why should an aircraft be any different…?
Hi Rab, motorbike or aircraft, excessive contact with the ground always hurts. :)
It amazes me that anyone would even consider flying any type of aircraft without training. Maybe we should let natural selection take care of those individuals??
Natural selection can be a painful learning curve. I might add your comment into the Q&A ;)
It cuts me how easily we denigrate that very human trait that gave birth to such sports/flight/anything extraordinary.
The Fanz Reichelt's of the world are the heartbreaking reminder of the cost of progress and adventure when things go wrong.
Training is indeed the way to go for the safest learning journeys, but I just can't bring myself to denigrate those who for "whatever" reason have the gumption and spine to stick out their neck into the unknown with so much at stake.
If "natural selection" took all those people from us, who would we pimp all our secondhand adventures from? 😃
@@pimplequeen2 I see where you are coming from. Maybe I'm also seeing things from a different angle. The current crop of Sub70s are not really Foot launched powered hang glider with wheels, they are all flying significantly faster and are kind of microlights in sheeps clothing. Also the majority ( exception to every rule) that are learning to fly them have no foundation in hang gliding to understand the control mechanism, they are literally off the street and see a licence free way of getting in the air. I look with awe at the guys in this video about those that helped form the current style of hang glider we have now, ruclips.net/video/-hRSUjJFmCc/видео.html The point I took away from this video was that most of the individuals that started it, all ended up dying from flying accidents. I just want people to be safe and enjoy the flying freedoms we have.
@@GolfFoxtrot22
(The linked video) Ah, the good old days when it was as free as other dangerous sports like climbing, surfing, canoeing... Self-reliance, sharing info, learning as they went along and teaching each other :)
(Plenty of people with "sanctioned" training get hurt)
I don't disagree with the wisdom of training, that's not my point, I just struggle to look down my nose on those who chose a riskier path.
You personally chose to trim your glider to 40mph, is there any reason why you would preferer to be restricted to 30mph to turn your wolf into a sheep? (To use your vernacular)
Of course not, you want to be free to make your own "choices" and are willing to carry the weight of those choices.
yes
Hi Frizzlefry, short and succinct. ;)
@@GolfFoxtrot22 I think it is because, that is the plain truth, if I had taken off in my sub without flight training it could have been very painful ! let alone landing, then there's air law, a bimble about is fine but there are rules to safe flying as others use the airspace and finally ( this is why I just wrote 'yes' ) there's weather, lapse rates etc, thermals etc... a hang gliders dream, but a novice sub 70's nightmare, cheers. oops I have an edit... safe hour building with an instructor first and a bit of ground school too..... that'll do for now ;-)
@@frizzlefry5904 I'll also be succinct.. I agree ;)
Nice video. Absolutely need training. once you are in the air you realise. 😁
Hi Lee, you'd be surprised how many would consider it.
If u have training then crash do u get your money back
I think you know the answer to that one Jock.
Need training for all things aviation. Like you, I have paramotor experience. I've had trike training about 17 hours. Also I have been towed in the air with an ultralight on a hang glider with an instructor. Have you seen this? ruclips.net/video/rwD1jW2Ee5Q/видео.html . I like the fact that it is more like flying a hang glider than a trike. And, it is electric not gas. I think it is going to be a great alternative to trike flying.
Hi David, thank you for sharing the video link. Electric gives lots of opportunity and I hope the energy density gets better. It still surprises me that people that will try to fly Sub70 trikes without training.
You need training to fly a drone over 500g fgs 🤣 So yeah to training, more risk too life and limb. A lot of people can fly but it's deffo harder than learning to drive.
It's a topic that many seem to not understand. SUB70 comes from the lighter end where has been a long standing body that have all taught themselves to fly. The issue is that Sub70 Flexwing is close to the paramotor fraternity but more of the microlight performance. As a result, the aircraft will show you very quickly how is can get out of control needing the correct recovery techniques. On a different note, I did teach myself to fly model aircraft ending up with a 9kg 120mph jet turbine...🤣😜.
What's the Raptor Giles?
Hi Michael, it's a Peabee 2 on steroids. Micro Maintenance take the PB2 and put a whole load of custom modifications like wheel brakes on the rear mains, carbon Seat and other carbon parts and a Factory R engine to name just a few. It also comes with a Custom ADAM wing.
@@GolfFoxtrot22 Giving serious consideration to an Adam. What;s the provisional cost? Any difference in performance or a bling makeover? I built the first 64 Doodlebugs BTW.
@@offshoretinker the engine is significantly more powerful and performance tuned. The wing is the same just a different design. Wow Dooddlebugs, a definite mark in time.
Another great video Giles. I don't know why anyone wouldn't want to do training. Why not learn more about self, air rules and machine? Training for me were some of the best days of my life. I was gutted when I got my licence! 🙂
Hi Paul, the Sub70 sits very close to the paramotor world who have in the early days, all been self taught. The issue with the new breed of Sub70 machines, is their performance is closer to the original microlights and can have the same ability to get the pilot into trouble. I do agree with you, I love learning and always like learning from other pilots. It was one of the reasons I went down the instructional route, to learn more and raise my flying standard.
Fly by the seat of your pants 👖
Hi Natural 9, not always a good thing, but we have all done it from time to time. :)
👍👍👍👍👍! You should look into using a service such as "Promo SM"!!!
Is that a streaming site?