Stefan Langer Glider World Champion with his electric powered plane! Aero 2025

Stefan Langer two times world champion is presenting his Alexander Schleicher AS33 Me glider at AERO. Stefan Langer, a German glider pilot, achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by winning the 18-meter class at the 38th FAI World Gliding Championships held in Uvalde, Texas. Flying the AS 33 Me, an electric self-launching glider, he secured first place with 95.8% of the maximum possible points, marking the best performance among all world champions that year . What Is the AS Me Glider? The AS Me series from Alexander Schleicher refers to the company’s self-launching electric gliders, designated by the suffix “Me” (from Motor elektrisch in German). These high-performance sailplanes integrate an electric motor that allows for independent takeoff—no towplane or winch needed. Key Models: • AS 34 Me – The first certified 18-meter class electric self-launching glider in the world. • AS 33 Me – A high-performance competition sailplane in the 18m class, also available with electric self-launching capability. AS 34 Me – Key Specs • Wingspan: 15 or 18 meters (interchangeable wing tips) • Motor: EMRAX electric motor (~35 kW) • Battery: Integrated in wings • Takeoff performance: Climb over 2,200 m on a single charge • Range: Approx. 120–125 km in powered cruise (ideal for self-retrieve or fallback) • First flight: 2020 • Certification: EASA certified AS 33 Me – Key Specs • Wingspan: 15/18 meters • Design purpose: 18m-class competition sailplane with electric self-launch • Powertrain: Same as AS 34 Me • Glide ratio (L/D): 50 • Certification: EASA-certified electric variant of the award-winning AS 33 (source) Why Pilots Love the AS Me Series • Full independence – Launch anytime, anywhere without waiting for a tow • Whisper-quiet operation – Low noise and no emissions • Eco-friendly – No fuel needed, and no engine maintenance • Lightweight system – Keeps soaring performance high • Safety – Reliable electric redundancy, retractable power unit, low thermal signature    / @stefly   https://www.stefly.aero #glider #aviation #airplane