Buying a microlight

[Guzz]

Hi Chaps,

Can anyone give me a rundown of the processes involved in buying a microlight, from say - paying the deposit.
Applications?
ATF?
Paperwork?
Timeframes?

Thanks a mil!

*G

[Tumbleweed]

New - ex works - The factory does everything. Just pay, they'll register, the lot.

Second hand - Download from CAA web site (change of ownership) forms,
sign off new ownership in the aircraft's log book, send with the AP form to Van Zyl Avaiation, ( unless you really want to 'experience' and go to CAA yourself)

New - import. Have finance available in a bank account - contact your bank's import/ forex dept and they will apply SARS/ transfer funds once approved on supplier's invoice.

The agent should arrange shipment and expect to pay this plus VAT once landed and cleared at customs.

Now, most importantly, either have the agent reigster at CAA for you, use Van Zyl Aviation, or best..............get hold of some good "yet to be met' mates, sign Power of Attorney in their name, bribe with biltong and promise of future social interaction and share in the anguish via long distance telephone.

[Biggles]

I bought second-hand. Painless way to do it is insist that the seller has the plane APed. Make sure the AP knows that its for change of ownership. They will do the relavant forms. You will have to sign and fill in your details and I sent to Zan Zyl Aviation. I am not sure how long it took for the registation as i was out of the country. But I remeber a few weeks maybe.

[skybound®]

Dont know if I would have the sellers AP do the inspection. Would prefer to have my own chosen AP do the inspection before I pay the purchase price. If all okay - you have had a mini pre-purchase inspection and change of ownership all at the same time.

As far as documentation, sent speed services direct to CAA and no hassle. Even Autho to fly faxed to me same day. Have done this at least three times with no need for a 3rd party.

[Guzz]

Thanks guys,

What other costs are to be expected, other than the purchase price?
AP costs, Change of ownership etc?

[skybound®]

Costs should be less than a thousand bucks.

Dont have the exact costs but something like:
Change of ownership R450
Authority to Fly R100
AP inspection - based on time - but cant see it being much more than R300-400

Worthwhile also mentioning to check that the AP is up to speed on the new regulations that come into effect in 2008 and what impact it may have on the 2nd hand aircraft you may be considering.

[VALKYRIE]

Hi guys

Planning to start MPL sometime before end of the year, and purchasing second hand whenever a good deal comes around.

Because some are more blessed than others, I have thought about financing through a bank rather than using up all my savings.

Have anybody gone this way? (I am looking at something more towards the bottom end of the market!) What are the bank's attitude towards this and how cruel is the insurance?

[John Young]

I have thought about financing through a bank - something more towards the bottom end of the market! What are the bank's attitude towards this and how cruel is the insurance?

Rocky road.

Save and pay cash especially for entry level.

Insurance, DIC, finance fees and commissions will leave you "with an expensive deal the end".

Regards
John ZU-CIB