Ultralight aviation stands for freedom, technical skill, and the sheer thrill of flying. But what makes it so special today? What role do competitions like the German UL Championship play, and why is Junkers involved in this field? In this interview, we speak with Steven Egeler from Junkers about the significance of ultralight aviation, the challenges faced by pilots, and the future of ultralight flying.
What makes ultralight aviation so special to you?
Ultralight aviation is the “most modern” form of general aviation. Its appeal lies above all in its versatility. There are countless manufacturers with a wide variety of ideas, concepts, and aircraft. For us, UL aviation embodies the very essence of flying: freedom, passion, and the immediate experience of flight. Ultralight flying is intimate for the pilot, technically fascinating, and accessible at the same time. You experience the thrill of flying very directly—and it’s precisely this enthusiasm that connects us to the UL community.
What role does ultralight aviation play in aviation today?
As mentioned earlier, ultralight flying is an important part of modern general aviation. It enables many people to get started in active flying, as it is relatively affordable and obtaining a license can be done very quickly. It also promotes technical understanding, personal responsibility, and flying skills. Furthermore, the ultralight scene is an exciting environment for innovation and new technical developments.
Why are competitions like the German UL Championship necessary?
Competitions bring people together and provide a special incentive to further develop one’s skills. The German UL Championship combines athletic ambition, precision, navigation, and team spirit. At the same time, it demonstrates just how versatile and challenging ultralight flying can be—and thus helps raise the sport’s profile.
What does the championship demand of the pilots?
A championship like this demands much more than simply flying well. It requires precise navigation, concentration, technical understanding, good weather and situational management, as well as quick and correct decisions. And, of course, a healthy dose of competitive spirit is also part of it. In the end, it’s not just skill in the cockpit that matters, but the interplay of many factors.
Why did you support the German UL Championship?
Because we want to promote and pass on a passion for flying. The championship embodies dedication, skill, precision, and community—values that are also of great importance to Junkers. We want to help keep the fascination with flying alive, inspire the next generation to take an interest in aviation, and ensure that training and the craft of flying itself are continuously passed on.
How does ultralight aviation fit with Junkers?
Very well. Hugo Junkers was a pioneer who did not view technology as an end in itself, but always sought new solutions and new possibilities for flight. It is precisely this combination of innovation, engineering, and passion that we also find in ultralight (UL) aviation. Today’s aircraft are lighter, more modern, and technologically advanced—but the fundamental fascination remains the same: people want to fly.
What are your hopes for the future of ultralight aviation?
We hope that ultralight flying remains open, innovative, and accessible. We hope that young people have the opportunity to discover their passion for flying, that clubs and airfields are preserved, and that technical innovations find their place. Above all, however, we hope that the joy of flying and the sense of community within the ultralight scene remain just as strong in the future.
