Is there any “real” structural difference between the UL and the VLA-LSA category in modern factory made EU aircraft ?
Is it only that “legaly” once you grow fat or fill-up the tanks you jump to the next category ?
There is no structural difference for the Eurofox, at least, in the UK.
Eurofox Microlight is 450 kgs MAUW, either nose- or tailwheel (472.5 kgs with ballistic ’chute). There is a UK factory-built option.
Eurofox LSA category – 560 kgs. Only available as self-build.
IME often there is. I have yet to meet an aircraft that goes unchanged from Microlight to LSA. Even if it’s just a single stringer that needed to be changed. It is dangerous to assume that this would be the case. Some of the microlights aren’t even tested properly for the use of their “certified” envelope.
MedFlyer wrote:
Is there any “real” structural difference between the UL and the VLA-LSA category in modern factory made EU aircraft ?
There may or there may not be. Usually not, but there is no golden rule here.
Any manufacturer would prefer not to have any difference, just for their own interest. it’s better to have only one production line with no differences as much as possible, even knowing that airplane manufacturing is somewhat an artisanal activity.
