SCHEMPP-HIRTH

Plane & Pilot

Friday, March 13, 2009 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipović

Key Takeaways:

The collaboration between Martin Schempp and Wolf Hirth, starting in 1928, led to the creation of some of the world's most respected sailplane designs.
Schempp-Hirth pioneered significant advancements in glider technology, including the Minimoa (the first high-performance glider to sell over 100 models) and the Cirrus (the first glass fiber glider in 1967).
Today, the company produces a diverse range of advanced sailplanes, such as the Ventus, Nimbus, Discus, and Janus series, incorporating modern features like carbon fiber technology and offering both pure gliders and motorglider variations.
Thousands of Schempp-Hirth gliders are flown globally, underscoring their lasting impact and reputation in the soaring community.

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Martin Schempp and Wolf Hirth first met in 1928 Their life-long collaborations would bring about some of the
world’s most respected sailplane designs. Beginning in 1935, the team developed the Minimoa, the first high
performance glider to sell more than a 100 models. In 1967 the company produced the first glass fiber glider,
the Cirrus. Today thousands of their gliders are flying around the world. Schempp-Hirth sailplanes include the Ventus A, an advanced 15-meter-class plane with carbon-fiber technology, thin wings, and a low-profile fuselage. The Ventus B is a 15-meter-class craft with a larger cockpit for tail pilots. The Nimbus 2C (open class) has a 20.3- meter wingspan with either carbon or carbon/fiberglass construction. The Janus B has an 18.2-meter wingspan for high-performance tandem two-place flying. The Janus C has a 20-meter span with carbon wings, seating for two, and competition-type performance. The Janus CM, with a 20-meter span, is a two-place motorglider with carbon wings and fully retractable engine. Schempp-Hirth’s newest sailplanes include the Discus, Duo Discus, Ventus and Nimbus, available in a variety of variations, including pure gliders and powered sailplanes.