I know that a 2 place aircraft cannot be a bonafide ultralight, but are there are open cockpit 2 seaters out there? I always wanted an ultralight, but I'd like to take my wife with me. All the other trike characteristics I want - in the open 2 stroke engine, nothing below me but the seat, dacron wings, etc.

"Ultralight" is a good way to describe a type of light aircraft that is generally associated with open cockpit, slow speeds, and low cost, but it can also be used to describe how the flight is conducted, similar to how you would classify a flight as part 91 or 135. Part 103 ultralight operation is pretty restricted-- no pax, aircraft must weigh less than 254 lbs dry, VFR only, give it[the reg] a read. There are exceptions though. As a USUA certified basic flight instructor(BFI), you can take a passenger as long as instruction is being given, and the dry weight of the aircraft is less than 475(i think) lbs. This is pretty loosely interpeted. I know a lot of guys who take passengers all the time, and they don't have a BFI. I wouldn't mind seeing them get pinched, since they are doing everyone else a disservice by tarnishing the certificate.

However, that is kind of going away under the Sport Pilot certificate. As a Private pilot, I can take a passenger in a two-seat "ultralight" as long as it is registered Experimental and N-numbered. The weight restrictions no longer apply. The new Light-Sport Aircraft certification will also allow anyone with a Private/Recreational/Sport pilot certificate to fly these planes with passengers too. I think this then limits the flight to the limitations of your pilot certificate.

So, just buy your favorite open cockit 2-place ultralight, take it apart, document the reassembly, and register it experimental, and take your buddy or your wife legally on a flight with your pilot certificate. I've got a Quicksilver MXL II for sale if you're interested! I'm stepping up to the beer can Cessna.

Zane
(currently in Minnesota)