FAR 103.13 — Ultralight Right-of-Way
FAR 103.13 explains right-of-way rules for ultralight vehicles, including yielding to aircraft and avoiding collision hazards. Key knowledge for ultralight pilots.
In Plain English
FAR 103.13 sets the basic right-of-way and see-and-avoid rules for ultralight vehicles operating near other aircraft. Because ultralights aren't certificated and their pilots aren't required to hold an airman certificate, the rule places the burden of separation squarely on the ultralight operator.
Under this section:
- You must maintain vigilance to see and avoid aircraft at all times while operating an ultralight.
- You must yield the right-of-way to all aircraft, regardless of category or class.
- You may not operate the ultralight in any way that creates a collision hazard with another aircraft.
- Powered ultralights must yield the right-of-way to unpowered ultralights (such as hang gliders and paragliders).
Operationally, this means ultralight pilots are always the lowest priority in the traffic pattern and en route — if there's any doubt, you give way. Staying clear of airports, traffic patterns, and busy airspace is the practical way to comply.
Regulation Text
14 CFR § 103.13§ 103.13 Operation near aircraft; right-of-way rules.
(a) Each person operating an ultralight vehicle shall maintain vigilance so as to see and avoid aircraft and shall yield the right-of-way to all aircraft.
(b) No person may operate an ultralight vehicle in a manner that creates a collision hazard with respect to any aircraft.
(c) Powered ultralights shall yield the right-of-way to unpowered ultralights.
Oral Exam Questions a DPE Might Ask
Q1When operating an ultralight, who has the right-of-way between you and a Cessna 172 in the pattern?
The Cessna. Per FAR 103.13, ultralight vehicles must yield the right-of-way to all aircraft and must see and avoid them.
Q2If you're flying a powered ultralight and encounter a hang glider at the same altitude, who yields?
The powered ultralight yields. FAR 103.13(c) requires powered ultralights to give way to unpowered ultralights.
Q3What is your responsibility regarding collision hazards while operating an ultralight?
Under FAR 103.13(b), you may not operate the ultralight in any manner that creates a collision hazard with respect to any aircraft, and you must remain vigilant to see and avoid them.
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Related Sections in Part 103