Introductory flights: clarifications from the Federation

At the start of this season, many people are wondering whether paid flights (also known as introductory or trial flights…) are possible in the current health context.

It is recalled that under decree no. 2020/1310 of 29 October 2020, in the version in force on 15 December 2020, all instruction flights are legally permitted, observing preventive measures as far as possible. Non-instruction flights with passengers, whether or not paid (introductory or trial flights), have not been regulated and are not formally prohibited, subject to social distancing.

In its previous opinions, and in the absence of any microlight-specific regulation, the FFPLUM considered that a parallel could be drawn with road transport, distinguishing between a flight with members of the same family and a flight with people who are not members of the same family, particularly in the context of introductory or trial flights. For a flight between members of the same family, it should be possible to argue that the allowance for gatherings granted to “groups of six people from the same household” or to “members of the same family or people living under the same roof to travel together in a vehicle within the limit of authorised seats” stems from a legal road principle that the microlight pilot can cite to try to justify a flight with a family member.

For a flight between people who are not from the same family, there is no text to refer to, and no prohibition or authorisation. Even so, there is no reason why the previous analysis concerning “members of the same family or people living under the same roof” could not be applied to people who are not members of the same family. The question of payment for the flight has no effect on this analysis.

Of course, all flights must be carried out with great care, in strict compliance with preventive measures: hand sanitiser or a water point with soap provided, masks worn throughout the period the pilot is with the passenger (before, during and after the flight), and equipment disinfected between each flight…

Text of 19 March 2021