Stemme S10-Vt

Single Piston

The Stemme S10 is a high-performance motor glider built by Germany's Stemme GmbH, combining the soaring efficiency of a sailplane with the self-launch capability of a powered aircraft. First flown in 1986, the S10 features a retractable Rotax 914 turbocharged piston engine that folds into the fuselage behind the cockpit, allowing the aircraft to transition seamlessly between powered flight and pure gliding. With a wingspan of 23 meters and a glide ratio exceeding 50:1, the S10 delivers sailplane performance while offering the operational flexibility to launch without a towplane or winch. The type has found roles in both recreational soaring and specialized missions including surveillance, atmospheric research, and pilot training where long endurance and quiet operation are valued. Its turbocharged engine enables operations up to 25,000 feet, and the clean aerodynamics yield cruise speeds around 135 knots with the engine running—impressive for an aircraft that can shut down mid-flight and glide for hours. SkyMeter has tracked 14 flights across 1 airframe and 1 operator, covering routes.