This sailplane act is a graceful aerial ballet. Accompanied by beautiful classical music, it is a stark contrast to the noisy performances of the power planes. The spectators delight in the change of pace and variety this sailplane performance offers.
For many years, Manfred was the only one in North America who competed in glider aerobatics championships. In 1977, in 1979 and in 1981, he competed in the prestigious German Glider Aerobatic Championships, and in 1977, received an award as the 'best foreign aerobatic pilot'. Manfred has been described as 'Sailplane Superstar' and as 'The King of Sailplane Aerobatics'.
Sailplane H 101 SALTO
The Salto is a fully aerobatic sailplane which is also suited for extended soaring flights. In May of 1986 Manfred flew with his Salto approximately. 530 km (330 nautical miles) over the Appalachian Mountains, a flight lasting 8 hours and 45 minutes.
General characteristics
- Model: H 101 Salto
- Manufacturer: start + Flug GmbH, Germany
- Registration No.: C-GJND
- Construction: Fiberglass
- Color: White with orange trim
- Seats: One
- Use: Fully aerobatic; soaring
- Wingspan: 13.6 m (44.6 ft)
- Empty weight: 190.5 kg (420 lb)
- Best glide ratio: 33 : 1
- Aspect ratio: 21.6 : 1
Performance
- Never exceed speed (Vne): 280 km/h (151 kts)
- Limit load factor: + 7G, - 5G