Microlight Flying Course to Isle of Wight, Hampshire

Take control of a flex-wing microlight on a half-day course that combines instruction with an extended coastal flight. Departing from Popham Airfield, you will navigate along the south coast, cross the Solent, and visit Sandown on the Isle of Wight before returning. This session provides a practical introduction to longer flights while giving hands-on guidance from an experienced instructor.

✈️ Key Details

• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Aircraft Type: Flex-wing microlight
• Location: Popham Airfield to Isle of Wight and back

🎯 Key Skills

• Handling a flex-wing microlight in cross-country and coastal conditions
• Take-off and landing procedures over land and water
• Weight-shift control and in-flight manoeuvres
• Basic navigation and route planning for extended flights
• Understanding safety procedures and environmental factors in touring flights

🛫 What to Expect

The course begins with a detailed briefing at Popham Airfield, covering safety, pre-flight checks, and the planned route to the Isle of Wight. The instructor explains the aircraft controls and demonstrates techniques for coastal navigation and cross-Solent flying, preparing you to handle the microlight confidently under supervision.

Once in the air, you will follow Hampshire’s southern coastline, passing Portsmouth, Langstone, and Chichester Harbour before crossing the Solent. The instructor provides step-by-step guidance, allowing you to take the controls and practise manoeuvres while monitoring airspeed, direction, and weight-shift control.

The flight lands at Sandown for a short break at the Aviator Cafe, after which the journey continues around the Isle of Wight and back over the Solent to Popham. A post-flight debrief reviews handling, navigation, and flight technique, providing feedback and tips for further microlight training.

📍 Location

Popham Airfield is one of southern England’s established microlight training sites, featuring two grass runways, hangars, and a café with a viewing area. It is approximately 30 minutes from southwest London, accessible from Winchester, Andover, and Basingstoke.

The route to the Isle of Wight offers extended coastal views, including Portsmouth, Langstone Harbour, Chichester Harbour, and the Solent. Sandown Aviator Cafe provides a convenient mid-flight stop, combining practical flight experience with time to relax before returning to the mainland.

📝 Prerequisites

Participants must be at least 10 years old and not exceed 16½ stone in weight. A basic level of fitness is required to enter and exit the aircraft safely. No prior flying experience is needed, as full instruction is provided throughout the course.

Students must follow all safety instructions, including pre-flight checks and in-flight guidance. The instructor ensures all participants are comfortable and capable of handling the aircraft with personalised tuition throughout the session.

🌟 Why Choose Us

The school specialises in flex-wing microlight instruction, providing highly experienced instructors who prioritise safety and skill development. One-to-one tuition ensures every participant receives detailed guidance throughout the course.

With hands-on flying, scenic coastal views, and professional instruction, students gain practical experience in cross-country flying, navigation, and aircraft handling. The supportive learning environment ensures a safe and educational experience.