Yes there really is such a thing!!!
Many people, consider flying to be the reserve of the very wealthy. For many years this was definitely the case, but not anymore. We now have an alternative to the large, heavy, outdated, fuel guzzling aircraft of the past. The modern 3 axis microlights use modern high efficiency engines and cutting edge technology in their construction and avionics. The result is lighter, more fuel efficient aircraft. These are much more suited to the 21st century, than those relying on 1960s or earlier technology.
It’s not only the aircraft, that are more economical either. Microlights operate under a more relaxed airworthiness regime, than the traditional Certificate of Airworthiness. This doesn’t mean to say that they are less safe though. The permit to fly system, that we operate under, still requires an annual inspection by an approved inspector. This does result in considerably reduced costs though.
Similarly the licensing system for a microlight is far less demanding, than for a larger aircraft. We operate on a National licence, not an ICAO one. The National Private Pilots Licence (NPPL) with a microlight rating can be obtained with a minimum of 25 hours. The PPL requires a minimum of 45 hours. The overall cost of obtaining the microlight licence will be 30 to 40% of that for the PPL.This represents a reduction of 60 to 70% in training costs!
You may think, that with all of these advantages there must be a downside. Depending on what you are looking for from your flying, there may not be a downside. If you simply want to fly for pleasure, the NPPL gives you a lot of bang for your buck. It is only when you want to fly commercially or fly on instruments in poor conditions that the PPL has a clear advantage. You will be able to fly far more often with a microlight, due to the greatly reduced operating costs. If you do find yourself wanting to fly a larger 4 seater aircraft on occasions, you can always add the required rating to your NPPL microlight at minimal cost.