ASW 19 – Successful standard class sailor
The ASW 19 is a single-seater glider of the standard class and is one of the most successful designs of its time. It was developed in the 1970s by Alexander Schleicher and designed by the designer Gerhard Waibel. The goal was to create a powerful competitive sailor that remains manageable at the same time.
The ASW 19 is made entirely of glass-fiber-reinforced plastic (GRP) and has a span of 15 meters. Its aerodynamically optimised wings give it very good glide performance as well as excellent thermal flight characteristics. Especially in low to medium thermals, it can climb efficiently and maintain altitude, which makes it predestined for long distance flights.
Flying, the ASW 19 is considered to be precise and harmonious to control. It responds directly to input, but remains good-natured enough for experienced club pilots. This makes it suitable for both ambitious route flight and entry into competition gliding. Their balanced design gives a clear sense of speed and attitude.
The ASW 19 achieved numerous successes in national and international competitions and shaped the standard class over many years. Today it is still found at many airfields and is appreciated for its performance, reliability and timeless construction. It stands for classic high-performance gliding and marks an important stage in the development of modern sailplanes.
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