Nimbus-4

The Schempp‑Hirth Nimbus‑4 is a high‑performance open‑class sailplane that entered production in the early 1990s and quickly became a benchmark for record‑breaking gliding. Developed from the successful Nimbus‑3, the Nimbus‑4 was first flown in 1991 and introduced a carbon‑fiber wing of 26.5 m span, a sleek laminar‑flow profile, and a refined fuselage that reduced drag while improving pilot ergonomics. Its wing incorporates full‑span flaperons and a sophisticated water‑ballast system, allowing pilots to vary wing loading from 32 kg/m² to over 70 kg/m² for optimal performance in diverse soaring conditions. The aircraft’s all‑composite construction provides an exceptional strength‑to‑weight ratio, enabling glide ratios exceeding 60:1 and a minimum sink rate below 0.5 m/s. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s the Nimbus‑4 set numerous world distance and altitude records, cementing its reputation as a first‑choice machine for competition pilots. Its impact extends beyond the competition arena: the design innovations pioneered in the Nimbus‑4 influenced subsequent glider models, advancing the use of advanced composites and aerodynamics throughout the sport of soaring. Even today, many clubs and elite pilots keep the Nimbus‑4 in their fleets, valuing its timeless performance and the lessons it taught about high‑aspect‑ratio wing engineering.

Schempp-Hirth

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Design & Classification