These days, more and more people strive to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Lough and this trend has led to microlighting becoming increasingly popular in the area. The club at Newtownards in County Down is one of the biggest in the UK. The majority of aerial sports that include handgliders, aeroplanes, helicopters, hot-air balloons take place in and around the airfield in Newtownards, adjacent to the Floodgates car park in the north. Aviators are advised against disturbing wildlife on Strangford Lough and flying clubs work with their members to ensure good practice, and urge others to do likewise. Picture courtesy of Niall Little.