Trio-Twister 103

The Trio‑Twister 103 is a lightweight, single‑seat ultralight glider produced by the German company Trio‑Twister. Developed in the early 2000s, the 103 entered series production in 2004 after a concise prototype phase that demonstrated its exceptional climb performance and ease of handling. The aircraft’s design traces its lineage to earlier tandem‑wing concepts, but Trio‑Twister refined the configuration with a carbon‑fiber composite fuselage, a high‑aspect‑ratio wing, and a patented self‑inflating wing‑tip sail that reduces drag during cruise. Powered by a 28‑horsepower two‑stroke engine, the 103 can reach a maximum speed of 115 km/h while maintaining a stall speed under 40 km/h, allowing operation from short, unprepared fields. Its fuel‑efficient engine and modular control system make it popular among flight schools and recreational pilots seeking an affordable entry into powered flight. The Trio‑Twister 103 has been credited with revitalizing interest in low‑cost, low‑impact aviation in Europe, influencing subsequent ultralight designs and encouraging stricter environmental standards for small aircraft. Today more than 400 units are registered worldwide, underscoring its lasting impact on the ultralight sector. Its straightforward maintenance routine and low operating costs have made it a benchmark for training programs across continental Europe, further cementing its legacy.