The Schleicher AS 33 is a German glider manufactured by Alexander Schleicher.[1] The prototype had its maiden flight from Huhnrain Airport, Poppenhausen near Frankfurt on 23 January 2020.[2] [3] [4] The design can be flown in the 18 metre class or in the 15 metre class.[2]
The AS 33 is based upon the ASG 29, with a totally new wing with an 18m (59feet) span and 10m2 area, which optimizes the airflow around the fuselage/wing transition as well as at the wingtips. The AS 33 is a single-seat, mid-wing sailplane of composite construction, with a T-tail.[2] To fly in the FAI 15m class, a second pair of outer wings is available. The separation point for the outer wings is at 5.1m along the span.[5]
The glider has upward extending three-tier air-brakes and independently switchable electrical valves for the water ballast tanks in the inner and outer wings. The main wheel has a disc brake. The main wheel and the tail-wheel are retractable.[5]
Schleicher no longer includes the designer's initial in the glider's designation.[6]