10 point ultralight rating systerm

8. Dealer: If there is dealer within 100 miles give the plane a 10. Many factories sell direct. Unfortunately this means that you have no dealer support, for training, or parts and pieces. In some cases it means that you might not have a place close by to fly from with other pilots.

Many dealers have engine specialist on staff with many hours of trouble shooting experience. Also a dealer can teach you how to fly. These problems are generally not part of the factory support package.

2 points off for every 10 miles from dealer.

If you have to buy direct from the factory, but a dealer near you stocks parts and pieces and offers training 8 points 

9. Planes in the area: If there are a lot of that plane flying in the area, or you can talk to more than 5 owners who fly a lot then give it a 10.

2 points off for each pilot less than 5. I have never heard a mother say that her child is ugly! You are not very likely to hear a factory or a dealer tell you about the problems with their aircraft. The more people you can talk to the more feedback, both positive and negative you will receive.
Better to make you own judgment. 

10. Safety Record: What is the planes overall safety record in the years it has been produced? If the type of craft you are considering has no unexplained accidents give it a 10. 


If there seem to be several accidents with no apparent cause I would be a little nervous. DO NOT, I repeat DO NOT get this information by word of mouth from a dealer or someone trying to sell you a plane.

Get the facts from pilots, publications or government agencies.