Microlighters

Hey everyone,

I have a keen interest in History, especially Aviation. I thought I'd open up a topic where we can all learn about the history of microlighting, specifically in SA. I hereby invite you all to post what you know about this subject so we can all learn... Where did it all begin? What were the first "Ultralights" flown here? Who were the pioneers and what was their story?

If we get enough information over the next few months, perhaps we can edit it all into a nice article for the Microflight Magazine....

The "floor" is yours...

Maybe an idea to contact Manfred from Aviate products - from what I hear, he was one of the drivers for the development of the Raptor, of which I own the first one made.

Interestingly enough, I was told that the reason for a thicker spec aluminium pipe being used, was because the military was going to use microlights - to what extent, and where, I dont know...

Got this image of wing mounted R1's and camo wing covering floating around in my mind...

This was the first Bushbaby in South Africa to be flown with a belt reduction drive. The learning curve was steep, and both me, the test pilot, and the owner, Eastwood Loftus (RIP) became very good at engine out landings. This was series no 7, ZU ARG, and it is still around.

My first Microlight was an Eagle, early Eighties. There were no instructors and you taught yourself out of a manual. Fun and Games.

Here is some interesting footage from the 80`s..... not in SA but never the less all part of the collective history:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NVT1VkB ... ure=fvwrel

Alex got some very early videos of the "boys" fly microlights - eagles , magnums basics quicksilvers- Daars n moerse klomp van hierrie goed daar by Rhino Park - Vra hy sal julle se Witwillem

The London Blitz in colour... 71 years ago!



http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article ... me_oneline