ASW 22 – The powerful all-rounder of the open class
The ASW 22 is a single-seater, high-performance open class sailplane and is one of the most versatile designs of its time. It was developed by the manufacturer Alexander Schleicher after a design by Gerhard Waibel. It was specially designed for demanding route flights and competitions and could be used both in the open and – in shortened span – in the 18-metre class.
In terms of design, the ASW 22 is made entirely of glass-fiber-reinforced plastic (GRP). Characteristic are their large wingspan, the slender wings and the possibility of carrying water ballast. These properties enable a very high glide performance with at the same time good climbing ability, in particular in strong weather and high speeds.
Flying, the ASW 22 requires a high level of experience and precision. It reacts directly and sensitively to tax inputs and is therefore primarily aimed at experienced performance and competition pilots. With clean flight technology, however, it rewards the pilot with impressive efficiency in fast flight and great route performance.
The ASW 22 achieved numerous successes in national and international competitions and is still considered a classic among open high-performance glider pilots. It stands for uncompromising performance, technical maturity and the further development of modern gliding at the highest level.
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