Scheibe Flugzeugbau Sf-28a Tandem Falke

Single Piston

The Scheibe SF-28A Tandem Falke is a German-built motor glider that bridges the gap between pure sailplanes and light touring aircraft. Developed by Scheibe Flugzeugbau in the 1970s as an evolution of the earlier SF-25 side-by-side Falke series, the SF-28 introduced tandem seating to improve aerodynamic efficiency and glide performance. Powered by an 80-horsepower Limbach SL1700E four-cylinder engine, the Tandem Falke can self-launch and sustain powered flight, yet retains a respectable glide ratio of approximately 1:27 when the engine is shut down, making it equally capable as a training glider or cross-country tourer. The type found particular favor in European gliding clubs and private ownership for its dual-role versatility. With a maximum takeoff weight of just 650 kilograms and a never-exceed speed of 135 knots, the SF-28A operates in a performance envelope similar to high-performance sailplanes but with the added flexibility of go-anywhere powered flight. Its low stall speed of 37 knots in landing configuration and docile handling characteristics made it a popular choice for transitioning glider pilots into powered aviation. Production continued into the 1980s before Scheibe shifted focus to other designs, leaving a modest fleet scattered across Germany and neighboring countries. SkyMeter has tracked 2 flights across 1 airframes and 1 operators, with routes observed.