Scheibe Flugzeugbau
SF 36
The Scheibe SF‑36 is a German motor‑glider that entered production in the early 1970s under the direction of Franz Scheibe’s firm, Scheibe Flugzeugbau. Developed as a modern evolution of the earlier SF‑25 Falke, the SF‑36 combined a low‑drag, high‑aspect‑ratio wing with a reliable, nose‑mounted 30 kW Hirth two‑stroke engine that could be retracted into a streamlined cowling for pure soaring. First flight took place in 1975 and serial production continued until the early 1990s, delivering more than 200 units to flying clubs and private owners across Europe. The aircraft features a side‑by‑side cockpit with full dual controls, an all‑metal fuselage with composite skin panels, and a glide ratio of about 28:1, making it one of the most efficient motor‑gliders of its class. Its simple yet robust construction, low operating costs and ability to self‑launch without a tow plane gave it a unique role in general aviation training, especially for pilots transitioning from sailplanes to powered flight. The SF‑36’s longevity and widespread adoption helped sustain the post‑war German motor‑glider industry and demonstrated the practicality of hybrid propulsion in light aviation. Today, a number of well‑maintained examples still appear at airshows, showcasing the timeless design and continued enthusiasm of the motor‑glider community.
Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 7
- First Flight
- 1980