I've been looking at the Bangkok Flight Academy (see here:http://www.talenttec...vice_flying.php) to get a license to fly ultralight aircraft. The course itself "prepares" you for the exam, but then you have to go take it with the Department of Civil Aviation. Anybody has any experience taking this type of exams?

Any idea of the paperwork involved? Am I in for a major headache or is it a matter of taking the written/practical exam and that's it? I'm worried about taking the whole course and then not being able to pass the test and get the license. I don't just want to learn to fly these things. I want the actual licence

I asked the school, but their answers are somewhat confusing (might be a question of language).

Dont do this....

Send them an email....I sent one to them a long time ago, took awhile to get an answer, but the guy that did answer was very good.

Dont do this....

I'll try my best.

To get your license is a little more complex than they make it out to be. Their course prepares you to take the practical and written exams.

It is up to you to study for the exams and pass your checkride before the Thai Dep. of Aviation will issue you with the license. The subjects are not particularly difficult, but you will need to study for them and they are Maths and Physics intensive.

Apply well in advance because the Dep. of Aviation will do a background check on you and you will need to do your aviation medical before you can be issued with a Student Pilot License.

Paperwork that is required is the following:

Copy of your passport

Rental agreement or proof of address from your embassy

Flight school or club membership details (they will issue you with this)

Aviation medical (Class 3 is fine)

On the bright side it is a great hobby that I am sure you will enjoy.

As I understand it the OP is asking about a UPL not a PPL.

The medical certificate for a UPL is the same as needed for a driving license and can be got anywhere.

AFAIK you need to get 15 hours of dual instruction before you can take the written exam, which is a joke, but only offered a few times a year, after which you get a student license.

There is a check ride for the UPL which consists of a rejected takeoff, a stall, a simulated dead stick landing and is entirely observed from the ground plus a brief oral.

Check out this site and get in touch with Tom - http://www.flythailand.com/ who is by far the most knowledgeable person in LOS re ultralight flying.

edit - you also need to join SFAT