Glider for heavy Pilot

Tha Caproni Calif A21S will do that. No limits on the belts, just a max total cockpit load (typically around 400 lb). As it is a side-by-side, CoG is not an issue.

Le dimanche 21 mars 2021 Ã* 14:55:24 UTC+1, Hank Nixon a écritÂ*:
We are looking at what gliders may be suitable for heavy pilots. Gross weight, max mass of non lifting components, and forward CG limits. Subject pilot weighs 280 lb.
Ant experience out there?
Thx
UH

On Monday, March 22, 2021 at 2:29:22 AM UTC-6, wrote:
I have flown a twin astir at max front seat weight ,
You run out of back stick to get speed down ,
NOT a glider to fly over max weight ,you run out of elevator
Gary
I've heard a heavy pilot can fly it solo from the back seat. Should help with the elevator.

Frank

On Sunday, March 21, 2021 at 9:55:24 AM UTC-4, Hank Nixon wrote:
We are looking at what gliders may be suitable for heavy pilots. Gross weight, max mass of non lifting components, and forward CG limits. Subject pilot weighs 280 lb.
Any experience out there?
Thx
UH
I have no clue...but for others, decades ago I remember a "large pilot" that forced the front cockpit panels of a 2-33 against the rudder cables.
I usually flew with him due to my light weight. I believe we were within weight/CG limits.
Check ride required some "things" to allow slow flight stalls.

Tough for larger pilots (size and weight). Just throwing in cockpit panel deformation as regards to control cables as well as possible lack of back stick for flare. Maybe thin back cushions to allow full aft stick movement....best to check on ground!!!

On Monday, March 22, 2021 at 10:07:42 AM UTC-4, Tango Whisky wrote:
Tha Caproni Calif A21S will do that. No limits on the belts, just a max total cockpit load (typically around 400 lb). As it is a side-by-side, CoG is not an issue.

Not an issue is not quite true but it has far less of an influence when compared to a conventional tandem seat configuration. The seats are still a little bit ahead of the CoG.

Uli - Calif-wrangler
'AS'

I have an opportunity to buy a glider with a parachute, both of which are weight limited. That’s all the motivation I need ... diet started .... 40lbs to go!

On Monday, March 22, 2021 at 3:07:11 PM UTC-7, wrote:
I have an opportunity to buy a glider with a parachute, both of which are weight limited. That’s all the motivation I need ... diet started .... 40lbs to go!

Here a couple of possibilities:
1. Put him in a 2-seater solo.
2. Get a DG400 and remove the engine (this requires a new weight & balance and likely adding lead weight in the tail.

Tom