Since 1994 Terry Mayhew has been building and flying Challenger Ultra-light aircraft. He has flown over 700 hours, and his workmanship has won awards at the Muskoka Air Show. The award for ‘Reserve Grand Champion’ was presented to Terry by astronaut Chris Hadfield. “It was exciting and rewarding to receive this presentation from Chris Hadfield,” states Terry.

  His interest in Ultra –lights has developed into a full time business. Freedom Flite is located at 121 Frederick Street in Bracebridge, and at the Muskoka Airport. As a professional builder and a Challenger factory authorized inspector Terry specializes in ultra-light and homebuilt aircraft fabric recovering, sales, repair and assembly.  In addition Freedom Flite manufactures and sells Challenger accessories such as the interior heater, finlets, a tool compartment and stainless steel tie-down rings.

  Last year Terry bought the manufacturing and design rights for the ‘Back Forty’ landing gear for the Challenger. “It is an after-market product, made of better quality materials, and with a superior design,” says Terry. The ‘Back Forty’ landing gear is made from ‘4130’ aircraft grade steel, and has spring suspension. Orders and inquiries have been received from Canada and the States, and New Zealand.”

  What is a Challenger Ultra-light aircraft? It is  STOL aircraft, which means it has the capability of Short Take-Off and Landings. The basic Challenger Ultra-Light kit starts at about $30K, but professionally built and with accessories can cost up to $50K. It is a recreational aircraft that can be used 12 months of the year with the use of skis and amphibious floats as well as wheels. It needs only a 200-foot runway for take off, and to enhance sightseeing it can fly slower than a conventional small aircraft. With a lower stall speed and gliding capabilities it makes the aircraft safer and a pleasure to fly. Upon building completion the aircraft must be inspected by a factory or Canadian dealer authorized person.

  Who can fly an Ultra-light? A person requires a pilot permit, which includes ground school, in-flight instruction and a government written exam. To enter the world of ultra-light flying contact Terry Mayhew at (705) 645-8697, or go www.ultralightassembly.com or e-mail terry@ultralightassembly.com.