Soaring is quite unlike any other kind of flying. Plunk yourself down in an open field on a warm, sunny day, as I did last fall, and watch a hawk, wings outstretched, wingtips moving only slightly to adjust the flight path as they trace seemingly endless patterns across the sky in search of a meal. Natural soaring is silent, so quiet, in fact, that a hawk circles unnoticed unless eyes happen to turn skyward.
We Fly: Stemme S12
Key Takeaways:
- The Stemme S12 is a unique motorglider that combines the silent, thermal-reliant flight of a sailplane with the convenience and safety of a retractable 115 hp Rotax engine, mitigating the risks of traditional gliders.
- It boasts an impressive 53-to-1 glide ratio, a large but foldable 82-foot wingspan, and a comfortable side-by-side cockpit with excellent visibility.
- The aircraft is equipped with modern avionics, including a soaring computer (eVario) to aid in finding thermals, enhancing the silent flight experience.
- The author's first-time experience flying the S12 in the challenging Rocky Mountains highlights its blend of performance, safety, and the profound beauty of soaring.
Key takeaways sponsored by Aviator Pro | Start Your Training ->
See a mistake? Contact us.
