Alexander Schleicher GmbH & Co
Schleicher K 8
The Schleicher K 8 is a classic single‑seat glider introduced by Alexander Schleicher GmbH & Co in 1957. Developed by Rudolf Kaiser as a refinement of the earlier Ka 6, the K 8 combined a simple, robust airframe with forgiving flight characteristics, making it ideal for both clubs and aspiring pilots. Its wooden fuselage, fabric‑covered wings and a 15‑metre span produced a glide ratio of roughly 28:1, while the all‑metal Schempp‑Hirth airbrakes ensured reliable descent control. Production continued until the early 1970s, with over 1 000 units built worldwide, and the design was later adapted into the motor‑glider K 8B. Because of its low cost, easy maintenance, and predictable handling, the K 8 became the standard training platform in many European soaring clubs, helping to introduce generations of pilots to the sport. The aircraft’s enduring popularity also contributed to the global expansion of sail‑plane activity during the post‑war boom, cementing Alexander Schleicher’s reputation as a leading glider manufacturer. Its straightforward construction also allowed amateur builders to assemble home‑built versions, further spreading its influence across the gliding community. Today, restored K 8s still compete in vintage contests, a testament to their timeless design and lasting impact on aviation history.
