Ultralight Pilots Association of Canada holds annual convention

By Eric Dumigan | August 19, 2019

The Ultralight Pilots Association of Canada held its annual convention at Lubitz Field CLB2 in Southwestern Ontario on Aug. 16-18.

Ultralight pilots, manufacturers and suppliers gather each year at Lubitz Field in a relaxed country atmosphere. On-site camping, both under-wing and campers are permitted. Hot food, like schnitzel, chili and pasta, are served throughout the weekend. Music by Firelight provided live entertainment and movies like Miracle On The Hudson and Tail Spin were played during the evenings.

UPAC celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Lazair and 45th anniversary of the Zenair. Forms included Rotax engine tips provided by John Baker and Transport Canada’s Ludovic Masson. Presentations included the history of Lazair and Zenair along with Adrian Van Loenen’s aerial photo journey of Utah and New Mexico and Mike Thorp’s HiMax Final Episode; Lets Fly.

Ultralight flying is the operation of a light weight, slow-flying, one or two seat aircraft that can include fixed-wing, powered parachute and weight-shift control trikes to name a few. In Canada, there is basic and advanced ultralight categories. Basic is restricted to 1,200lbs (544.31 kilograms) and advanced to 1,232lbs (558.83 kg). Both are restricted to daylight VFR conditions and can operate off of land or water with up to two people with proper permits.

UPAC was formed in 1986, when the Ultralight Association of Canada and the Microlight Owners and Pilots of Canada joined together. UPAC is run by an elected board of directors and is focused on protecting the ultralight community’s freedom to fly in a minimally controlled environment. Membership is $50 and includes a monthly publication called Life Flight that features articles on maintenance, ultralight activities across Canada and proposed Transport Canada rules.

Find out more about The Ultralight Pilots Association of Canada at www.upac.ca.