Photograph:
Schleicher ASH 31Mi ZK-GZV (c/n 31130) at Russell Flat, New Zealand in 2015 (NZCIVAIR))
Country of origin:
Germany
Description:
Two-seat high-performance self-launched glider
Power Plant:
One 41 kw (55 hp) Austro Engine IAE 50R-AA single-rotor Wankel engine
Specifications:
- Wingspan: 21 m (68 ft 11 in)
- Length: 7.07 m (23 ft 2 in)
- Wing area: 13.2 m² (142 sq ft)
- Rate of climb: 241 m/min (790 ft/min)
- Wing loading: 53.0 kg/m² (10.9 lb/sq ft)
- Fuel capacity: 16 litres (3.52 Imp gals) in fuselage and 46 litres (10.11 Imp gals) in two wing tanks
- Wing aspect ratio: 33.5
- Water ballast: 140 litres (31 Imp gals)
- Minimum sink rate: 28 m/min (92.5 ft.min)
- Best glide ratio: 56:1
- Empty weight: 430 kg (948 lb)
- Loaded weight: 700 kg (1,543 lb)
History:
In 2008 Alexander Schleicher announced his company was developing a new design to replace the ASH 26 series, the new model to have extended ailerons and a re-designed wing structure. The new design has since been produced in two models, with either an 18 m (59 ft) or 21 m (68.8 ft) wing and with the capability of self-launching by way of an engine. Prototype of the new model was first flown in 2009 and, by 2013, 100 examples had been delivered.
The aircraft had a high-performance wing profile with a blowhole boundary layer system, integrated with flaps and ailerons. The new wing structure allowed for the 21 m (68.8 ft) wing despite a wing section of 13%. The aircraft was designed by Martin Heide and was said to have an “Open-class feeling”. The wing was built in four pieces and the aircraft could be transported in a small standard tailer. The winglets were removable.
Power was provided by a Wankel type engine produced by Austro Engine driving a two-blade 1.55 m (5 ft 1 in) diameter propeller which retracted into the fuselage when not in use.
A number of examples have been registered in this part of the world. ZK-GZV (c/n 31130 – ex D-KOAB) impacted mountainous terrain in the Ben Ohau range north-west of Twizel on the south island of New Zealand and was destroyed on 6 February 2016. ZK-GHG (c/n 31131) has been located in the Auckland area, and VH-DOH (c/n 31047) has been based at Bathurst, NSW.