Schleicher Ash 30 Mi

Single Piston

The Schleicher ASH 30 Mi is a high-performance self-launching sailplane that bridges the gap between pure gliders and motor gliders. Built by Germany's Alexander Schleicher GmbH & Co, this 18-meter wingspan aircraft entered production in the early 2000s as an evolution of the famous ASH 25 two-seat glider. What sets the ASH 30 Mi apart is its ingenious sustainer engine concept: a small retractable single-cylinder two-stroke engine that deploys only when needed for self-launch or to extend cross-country range, then retracts completely to preserve the aircraft's exceptional glide performance. With a best glide ratio exceeding 50:1 in pure soaring mode, the ASH 30 Mi can climb to altitude under its own power, shut down and retract the engine, and then exploit thermals and ridge lift like a pure sailplane. The aircraft's carbon fiber construction keeps empty weight around 1,300 pounds despite the added propulsion system, allowing a useful load sufficient for long cross-country flights with water ballast. Pilots prize the type for its versatility in competitive soaring and recreational cross-country flying, offering the freedom to launch from airports without towplanes or winches while maintaining the performance characteristics that define world-class sailplanes. The cockpit accommodates two crew in tandem, making it popular for training advanced soaring techniques and sharing the experience of long-distance glider flights. SkyMeter has tracked 5 flights across 3 airframes and 2 operators over routes, with MARTIN JESSE W the largest observed operator.