HV Parowan

🧭 Overview

The meeting, organized by the Auxiliary Powered Sailplane Association (ASA), focused on recent developments in Schleicher’s self-launch gliders. Rex Mayes provided updates on the AS 34ME, AS 33ME, and AS 35MI, covering design evolution, performance, battery systems, and production timelines

Date: February 19, 2026
Time: 17:45–19:00 (America/Denver)
Host: Dan Malone (ASA Vice President)
Presenter: Rex Mayes (Williams Soaring Center, Schleicher Dealer)
Attendees: ~60 participants

You can find the presentation here youtube logo

⚡ Electric Self-Launch Gliders

AS 34ME

  • Based on the ASW 28B, available in 15 m and 18 m wingspans.
  • Battery system: 960 cells distributed in the wings for better cooling and lower heat density.
  • Performance:
    • 38 kW peak power for 2 minutes; 25 kW continuous.
    • Capable of self-launch at 600 kg MTOW.
    • After a typical 800 m climb, retains enough energy for ~140 km of powered range.
  • Operational notes:
    • Batteries are not removable for daily charging.
    • Taxiing uses ~3% of battery for a 4,000 ft back-taxi.
    • Optional steerable tailwheel adds convenience but shifts CG aft by ~1 inch.
  • Temperature management:
    • Storage range: –20°C to +60°C; best stored at ~60% charge.
    • Owners in cold climates use incandescent bulbs with thermostats in trailers to prevent freezing.

AS 33ME

  • Successor to the ASG 29, optimized for high wing loading and performance.
  • Battery weight: ~33 kg per wing (~70 lb), making assembly heavier but manageable with assist devices.
  • Performance: Comparable to the 34ME, with slightly improved glide ratio.
  • Charging: Initially required a step-up converter for U.S. voltage, but newer units now work directly on 110V/220V.

🛩️ AS 35MI (New Development)

  • Successor to the AS 31MI, powered by the Austro rotary engine(same as AS 31/32/26 series).
  • Configuration: 18 m and 20 m wings with new aerodynamic design influenced by the Concordia and AS 33.
  • Features:
    • Retractable and steerable tailwheel.
    • Electric water dump valves.
    • Updated cockpit ergonomics for larger pilots.
    • Acrylic paint and wingtip wheels standard.
  • Flight testing: Ongoing; first production deliveries expected mid-2029.

🧮 Production & Delivery Timelines

  • AS 34ME: Estimated delivery – Q2 2027.
  • AS 33ME: Estimated delivery – Q2 2028.
  • AS 35MI: Estimated delivery – Q2 2029.
  • Schleicher’s production capacity is about half of 1980s–1990s levels due to complexity of electric systems.

💰 Costs, Maintenance & Tariffs

  • Battery replacement cost: Not yet established; no replacements performed to date.
  • Tariffs:
    • Gliders: typically exempt.
    • Trailers: subject to ~50% tariff due to steel/aluminum classification.
    • Spare parts: often incorrectly tariffed by shipping companies.

🗣️ Key Takeaways

  • Electric self-launchers offer simplicity, quiet operation, and ease of use, though limited by battery energy density compared to gasoline engines.
  • The AS 35MI represents Schleicher’s continued investment in hybrid and rotary-powered designs.
  • Demand remains strong, with multi-year lead times for new orders.
  • Practical owner experiences (e.g., heating trailers, taxi power use) are shaping operational best practices