Microlights, or ultralights as they are known in Northern America, are flying craft that are subjected to less regulations than regular aircraft. This is typically due to their size, maximum speed, carrying capacity, etc. In reality, they are used by people flying for fun as a hobby rather than being used as a serious mode of transport.

After a couple of practice flights, I have to admit that I am very taken by this activity. Remember the feeling that you got when you first passed your driving test and had freedom? Well this takes it one step further by releasing you from the burden of driving laws, traffic congestion, road rage, etc. You literally travel 'as the crow flies'. There are downsides of course - your trips are heavily tied with established airports, and microlights are fairly expensive (about 10K - 20K pounds for a reasonable second-hand craft of varying power).