Legal Access to Local Airport - FAR Part 103 Flying

[jedi]

First you must determine what class airspace the airport is located in. From your question I assume it is Class G. FAR 103 requires permission from the controlling authority if it is Class B, C, D or associated Class E surface area. The FBO manager is not the controling agency in most cases.

The airport manager may prohibit operations if he determines the operation is unsafe.

Sounds like you have a reasonable airport manager. That is good news and not always the case.

You need to do some homework and convince the FBO manager that you are responsible and know what you are doing. Your paraglider/ul instructor should be able to work with you on this but many are not familiar with the regs and procedures.

Dana above is a good source and I would also like to assist as needed or wanted. Request a phone contact for live discussions.

Please post the three letter airport identifer of the field you are planning to fly from.

Check the Airport Facility Directory for the intended flying field. If Ultralights are banned it would be listed there. I am 97% certain that is not the case at your field from the above posted comments.

This is a touchy subject in many cases but usually workable when the right procedures are followed.

It is typical for the local authorities to say no or discourage the operation until they are convinced that you know the procedures and how to safely operate in compliance with the regulations. They do not have a clue as to the requirements, you have to inform them. It is not their job to train you.

If you approach with the attitude that you are seeking permission to operate when no permission is required it can not be granted and that tells the FBO that you do not know the requirements. Once you know the legalities you can approach the FBO as an informational meeting to explain how you plan to operate and see if he has suggestions for safety improvements or other comments. Frequently he/she will then welcome the operation.