G-5

The Gribovsky G‑5, designed and built in the early 1930s by Vladislav Gribovsky’s small Moscow workshop, was a pioneering Soviet light sport aircraft that epitomised the country’s push toward affordable personal aviation. First flown in 1932, the single‑seat monoplane emerged from Gribovsky’s earlier experimental models, incorporating many lessons learned from his G‑1 and G‑4 trainers. Its wooden frame, covered with fabric, was light yet robust, and the low‑wing configuration afforded excellent visibility and handling characteristics for novice pilots. Powered by a modest 35‑horsepower Shvetsov M‑11 radial engine, the G‑5 achieved a maximum speed of 150 km/h, a ceiling of 3 500 m and a range of about 350 km—figures impressive for an aircraft of its weight class. Innovative features included an adjustable trim system, a removable cockpit canopy for winter operation, and a simple, drop‑out landing gear that reduced maintenance time. Though only a few dozen were produced, the G‑5’s success demonstrated that low‑cost, home‑built‑style aircraft could be reliable and enjoyable, influencing later Soviet light aircraft such as the Yakovlev UT‑2 and inspiring a generation of hobbyist builders. Its legacy endures as a milestone in making flight accessible to the broader public.

Vladislav Gribovsky

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Design & Classification