Design Philosophy and Development
The ASH-30Mi emerged from Alexander Schleicher's ambitious goal to create a worthy successor to the ASH-25, which had dominated Open Class competition flying for over two decades with 266 aircraft produced. Martin Heide led the design team with clear objectives: retain all advantages of the ASH-25 while incorporating cutting-edge safety features, improved cockpit ergonomics, and enhanced performance through advanced aerodynamics.
The development program emphasized innovation at every level. The new wing sections deliver approximately 0.2 higher coefficient of lift compared to the ASH-25, while automatic control surface connections eliminate the traditional challenge of rigging control systems during assembly. The enlarged cockpits provide superior visibility, and the modular wing design allows operators to configure the aircraft with a 13-meter span using only inner panels for hangar storage.
Technical Excellence
Powering the ASH-30Mi is an Austro Engine IAE 50R-AA single-rotor Wankel engine producing 41 kilowatts. This liquid and air-cooled powerplant features dual ignition, fuel injection with automatic altitude compensation, and operates with minimal vibration across all power settings. The engine drives a two-bladed, 1.55-meter diameter retractable propeller designed by Schleicher, enabling the aircraft to achieve a rate of climb of 3 meters per second.
The fuel system incorporates a 14-liter fuselage tank providing approximately one hour of engine operation, supplemented by two wing tanks holding 44 liters for extended ferry flights. This configuration allows the ASH-30Mi to cruise at 70-75 knots while maintaining the flexibility to operate in controlled airspace at assigned altitudes.
Performance Characteristics
Measuring 9.33 meters in length with a height of 1.79 meters, the ASH-30Mi achieves its exceptional performance through an aspect ratio of 40.9 and wing loading of 49.5 kilograms per square meter. The aircraft's minimum sink rate of 28 meters per minute, combined with its glide ratio exceeding 60:1, provides thermal sensitivity that rivals single-seat competition sailplanes.
With an empty weight of 630 kilograms and maximum takeoff weight of 850 kilograms, the ASH-30Mi carries two occupants while maintaining the performance envelope demanded by serious cross-country pilots. The 17.17 square meter wing area incorporates state-of-the-art composite fiber construction and modern airfoil technology on both wings and stabilizers.
The Schleicher Legacy
Alexander Schleicher represents 85 years of German glider manufacturing excellence, continuing operations today as one of the world's premier sailplane manufacturers. The company's expertise in high-performance sailplane design stems from decades of innovation, with more than 500 self-launching Schleicher gliders proving the reliability of their powerplant installations.
The Wankel engine selected for the ASH-30Mi reflects Schleicher's commitment to proven technology, consuming significantly less fuel than conventional two-stroke engines while operating quietly enough to minimize noise concerns at airfields. This powerplant choice demonstrates the manufacturer's understanding that modern motor-gliders must balance performance with environmental responsibility.
Operational Reality
By 2013, production remained limited with only five ASH-30Mi aircraft completed, reflecting the specialized nature of Open Class competition flying and the aircraft's premium positioning. The related ASH-31Mi single-seat variant achieved greater commercial success with 100 deliveries by the same timeframe, indicating market preference for single-seat high-performance sailplanes.
The ASH-30Mi received its Type Certificate, confirming regulatory approval for commercial operations. This certification validates the aircraft's design integrity and manufacturing quality, essential factors for pilots investing in high-performance sailplanes where safety margins during extreme performance flying are paramount.
Modern Soaring Excellence
The ASH-30Mi addresses the evolving needs of competitive soaring pilots who require the flexibility of self-launching capability without compromising pure gliding performance. Its ability to conduct ferry flights eliminates the logistics challenges of retrieving unpowered gliders, while the two-seat configuration enables instruction, partnership arrangements, and task-sharing during extended cross-country flights.
This aircraft represents the convergence of traditional soaring expertise with modern composite construction techniques and advanced powerplant technology. The ASH-30Mi stands as testament to the continued evolution of sailplane design, proving that even in the mature field of glider development, significant advances remain possible through careful engineering and uncompromising attention to performance.