Moyes Malibu

The Moyes Malibu is a high‑performance competition hang glider produced by Australian manufacturer Moyes Delta Gliders, a company founded in the early 1970s by former glider pilot Bill Moyes. Introduced in 1994, the Malibu quickly became the flagship model for pilots seeking speed, agility, and precision in cross‑country racing and record‑setting flights. Its development built on the successful designs of the earlier Moyes Dragon and Pathfinder, incorporating advanced aerodynamic research and the latest composite materials.

Key features of the Malibu include a rigid, double‑surface wing with a 9.2‑meter span, a streamlined nose tube, and a carbon‑fiber leading‑edge spar that reduces weight while maintaining structural integrity. The wing’s aspect ratio of 7.5:1 provides an exceptional lift‑to‑drag ratio, allowing pilots to achieve glide ratios exceeding 15:1 and cruise speeds above 50 km/h in moderate thermals. Adjustable control bar geometry and interchangeable sail panels let pilots fine‑tune handling characteristics for varied conditions.

The Malibu’s significance lies in its impact on modern hang‑gliding competition; it set new performance benchmarks, inspired subsequent designs from other manufacturers, and contributed to the sport’s evolution toward faster, more aerodynamic aircraft. Its legacy endures as a benchmark of engineering excellence within lightweight aviation.