FAI "Colibri" badges are performance badges for pilots of ultralight aircraft. The rules for obtaining them are based on the international rules of the FAI. Fulfilling the conditions for obtaining individual badges should not only mean that, after successful completion, we hang a diploma on the wall and stick a badge in our lapel. Above all, it should lead to the acquisition of the necessary habits and experience with flying other than the classic flying "around the chimney". Especially the precise landings that the pilots perfect when meeting the conditions can mean significant help - especially psychological - when landing in unknown places or in cases of emergency landings in confined spaces.
Although obtaining individual Colibri badges may not be particularly complicated, there is a contrary opinion among a large number of pilots. That's why I'm bringing information that should make the path to obtaining a "hummingbird" easier for all those interested. It is true that until 2011 some conditions were more difficult to meet. Thanks to the fact that the LAA CR successfully exerted pressure on the international field, it was possible to achieve several changes in the rules. These changes should make earning badges much easier for many pilots, while maintaining the required skill level. It is now possible to fulfill the conditions of badges by attending competitions organized by the sports commission of the UL Union.
There are four "levels" of badges: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Diamond. They can be obtained by any pilot if he properly documents the fulfillment of the conditions for achieving it and the referee (for the sports commission gold badge) confirms the fulfillment of the conditions. The awarding of the gold badge is registered worldwide by the relevant FAI commission. The Diamond Badge is awarded by the FAI, on the basis of proposals from national aero clubs, for outstanding sporting achievements or significant contribution to flying. A Diamond Badge can be awarded to holders of at least a Silver Colibri Badge.
All required flights must be made on a Class R aircraft - meaning any "ultralight" with a valid technical license and insurance. A sports license is not required to obtain the badge. Completion of navigational flights can be documented by recorder recording or with the help of witnesses (who will confirm the landing) and a referee, who will also confirm the fulfillment of other conditions. It is of course possible to borrow a flight recorder by agreement. For all other details or possible ambiguities, I recommend consulting with the referee, with whom you will agree and who will confirm the completion of individual tasks. And now to specific badges.
Bronze badge
a) flown at least 20 hours and 50 landings
b) 3 precision landings within 10 m of the given point or 3 precision landings on the landing deck with the engine running for at least 50 points during the official competition.
c) 1 precision landing within 20m maximum of the given center from 300m (1000ft) AGL with the inlet fully closed, or 1 precision landing on the landing deck with the engine off for at least 50 points during an official competition.
d) 2 navigation flights over a triangular track of minimum length dM x 1 (dM = distance corresponding to the distance the aircraft flies in one hour of flight at cruise speed), one with a stopover at a predetermined location, or participation and successful completion of 2 navigation tasks flown at official competition. Flights completed outside of an official competition must be solo.
Silver badge
Gold badge
