Sportflug

Sportflug, or sport flying, is the practice of recreational aviation focused on leisure, sport, and personal achievement rather than commercial transport. It covers a broad range of aircraft and activities used for sport and training, including light powered airplanes, sailplanes (gliders), balloons, and paragliders. Sportflug emphasizes flight experience, skill, and community, with participants flying for pleasure, competition, training, and social purposes within a network of clubs and associations.

In many countries sportflug is organized through aero clubs, flight schools, and national associations. Activities can include training flights, club competitions, cross‑country touring, and air shows, all conducted under the supervision of civil aviation authorities and in accordance with applicable flight rules and airspace access.

Aircraft commonly used in sportflug include light single- and two-seat airplanes, gliders and motor gliders, ultralight or microlight aircraft, and self-launching paragliders. Aircraft may be certified for sport use or assembled as kits or amateur-built, depending on local regulations.

Regulation and safety: Pilots must meet licensing or medical certification requirements appropriate to their aircraft category. Training covers aerodynamics, navigation, meteorology, and safety procedures. Ongoing maintenance, airworthiness checks, and adherence to safety guidelines are integral to participation.

Organizations: National and regional bodies coordinate events, competition rules, and training standards. Local aero clubs provide facilities, instruction, and a social network for sport pilots.