According to the figures published in 2024 by the two responsible associations, DAeC (German Aero Club) and DULV (German Ultralight Flying Association), there are approximately 531 authorised UL helicopters and UL gyrocopters<\/strong>. By comparison, over 4,600 fixed-wing aircraft are registered in the UL segment. This means that UL rotorcraft are still in the minority - not least because of the significantly higher training costs and technical complexity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But the fascination is great: UL helicopters allow real \"hovering\", i.e. hovering in the air, as well as vertical take-off and landing. UL gyrocopters score points for their robust flight behaviour, high wind resistance and low space requirement during operation - ideal for narrow landing sites or sporty flying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Both belong to the rotorcraft family - but differ considerably in technical terms:<\/p>\n\n\n\n These differences are also noticeable in the training - both types require their own training programmes. SPL licences<\/strong> (Sport Pilot Licence), but are under the regulatory responsibility of the DAeC or DULV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The theory lessons include at least 60 hours<\/strong> and can also be completed by distance learning. The subjects taught are<\/p>\n\n\n\n The theory test takes place as Multiple-choice test<\/strong> and is approved by the examination board of the training organisation. A radio operator's licence is not mandatory, but is strongly recommended for flying in controlled airspace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The practical training includes at least 40 flying hours<\/strong>of which:<\/p>\n\n\n\n At the end there is a test flight with an examiner on board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here the minimum training is 30 hours<\/strong>including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here, too, the final part of the training is a test flight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Anyone who already holds a licence for fixed-wing aircraft (e.g. UL, PPL, LAPL), gliders or paragliders can Shortened theory and practical elements<\/strong> complete:<\/p>\n\n\n\n A detailed overview of crediting options can be found on the websites of DAeC<\/strong> and DULV<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Training costs vary greatly depending on the aerodrome, aircraft and flight school. Here are some average values:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In 2024, only 44 new UL rotorcraft licences<\/strong> issued - a small number in comparison to fixed-wing UL training. This is due to the costs, but also to the limited number of flight schools with the appropriate equipment. Nevertheless, this area could develop more dynamically in the future, as modern gyrocopters and compact UL helicopters offer enormous flexibility - and fit in with the trend towards individual mobility with a high degree of personal responsibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether gyrocopter or helicopter - the path to an UL licence in the rotorcraft segment is more demanding than for fixed-wing aircraft, especially financially. But it is feasible and offers a completely new flying experience. Anyone who is enthusiastic about the world of rotors will find the UL sector a fascinating entry point - with less bureaucracy than in the EASA world, but with plenty of practice and proximity to real flying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nHelicopter or gyrocopter? The differences at a glance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nTheoretical training - identical for both licences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nPractical training for UL helicopters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nPractical training for UL portable screwdrivers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nRetraining for holders of other licences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nWhat does the training cost?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
UL gyroplane (complete training for pedestrians):<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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UL helicopter:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Medical examination (Medical):<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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\n\n\n\nProspects: More rotorcraft in the UL?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nConclusion: Flying rotary wings - challenging but achievable<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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