Heavy Pilot Capable Training Gliders

[Chris Stieber]

#20026

Hi All,

I’d like to get a glider rating add-on, but I’m running into a road block due to my weight. Fully dressed, I weigh as much as 290 pounds and I’ve yet to find a glider that can accommodate my weight. Does anyone know of one that can? Are there any side-by-side gliders that could work in the U.S.?

This matter should be good motivation to drop 40 to 50 pounds, but I’d like to start soaring soon. So any suggestions would be appreciated.

Blue skies,
Chris

[Peter Schutte]

#20140

Greetings Chris,

I just did a weight and balance on our SGS 2-32 with you at 290 in the front and a 200 lb instructor in the back. The 2-32 is still 25 lbs under gross but very close to the forward CG. It will work for you, however, I think you know what you need to do. http://www.lescsoaring.com Not sure where you are but we do allow training in the 2-32 for this very reason.

Regards……..Pete – CFI-G

[Chris Stieber]

#20185

Pete,

Thanks for the reply. I’ll be in contact soon.

Blue skies,
Chris

[Chris Stieber]

#85129

Update March 2024.

Well, I managed to lose the weight and obtained my commercial glider rating in a Grob 103 last Sunday. I liked that sailplane so much, that now I want one, but most of the listings I see are for very high time birds. Other than WingandWheels.com, where should I look?

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