Pipistrel Aviation
Pipistrel started as an aviation company in 1989. It is a general aviation firm which is based in Slovenia. Pipistrel is well-known for producing high-quality light and ultralight aircraft. Textron, an American corporation, purchased Pipistrel and took ownership in 2022. Pipistrel has manufactured almost 2,000 airplanes since its inception in 2019. While the Pipistrel’s earliest products were hang-gliders, they are now one of the leading light aircraft manufacturers.
The usage of composite materials by Pipistrel in their microlight and light sport aircraft reflects their innovative mindset. Pipistrel designed the first electric two and four-seater planes with the same enthusiasm. Pipistrel won several NASA Challenges, including the Green Flight Challenge in 2011. Pipistrel is now working on future aviation concepts as part of Textron.
I believe Pipistrel does a fantastic job of providing innovative solutions to the general aviation sector, and with their Panthera clean-sheet design, I expect they will also target larger and faster aircraft in the future.
You might also be interested in: 30 Most Common Airplane Types Guide: All You Need To Know
Summary of the Plane Types and Models of Pipistrel
Since its establishment in 1989, Pipistrel has developed and manufactured various aircraft. They divided their products into four categories, including gliders, microlights, and other light aircraft. Their products range from lightweight trikes to electric planes to vertical takeoff and landing freight planes.
Pipistrel has a diverse catalog thanks to its long history in the GA market. The company has unveiled Twenty-one new aircraft models since its founding. Even though Pipistrel halted manufacturing some models, many are still available, and others are in the pipeline. Some models never moved past the prototyping phase.
Table 1
| Gliders and light aircraft | Role | Status | Produced | Developed from |
| Pipistrel Alpha Trainer | Light-sport aircraft | In production | May 2012-present | Pipistrel Virus |
| Pipistrel Apis | Ultralight self-launching glider | No longer being manufactured | Started its serial production in 2009 | None |
| Pipistrel Apis-Bee | Motor glider | No longer being manufactured | Production completed (2018) | Pipistrel Apis |
| Pipistrel Panthera | Light aircraft | In development | – | None |
| Pipistrel Sinus | Ultralight Aircraft | In production | 1995-present | Pipistrel Virus |
| Pipistrel Taurus | Self-launching sailplane | In production | 2002-present | DLR HY4 |
| Pipistrel Virus | Ultralight civil utility aircraft | In production | 1999-present | Pipistrel Sinus |
| Pipistrel Virus SW | Ultralight civil utility aircraft | In production | 1999-present | Pipistrel Sinus |
Table 2
| Electric Aircraft | Role | Status | Produced | Developed from |
| Pipistrel Alpha Electro | Light-sport Aircraft | In production | May 2012-present | Pipistrel Virus |
| Pipistrel Apis Electro | Glider | No longer being manufactured | Listed as legacy on October 2018 | Pipistrel Apis |
| Pipistrel Taurus Electro | Self-launching sailplane | In production | 2002-present | DLR HY4 |
| Pipistrel Taurus G4 | Electric aircraft | Prototype
First flight (12 August 2011) |
2 units produced | Pipistrel Taurus |
| Pipistrel WATTsUP | Ultralight civil utility aircraft | First flight
(12 August 2014) |
1 unit produced | Pipistrel Sinus and Pipistrel Virus |
| Pipistrel Velis Electro | Electric light aircraft | Introduced in 2020, In Production | 2020-present | Pipistrel Virus |
Table 3
| Ultralight trikes | Role | Status | Produced | Developed From |
| Pipistrel Basic | X | X | X | X |
| Pipistrel Plus | X | X | X | X |
| Pipistrel Spider | Ultralight trike | Production complete (2018) | 1980s – present
Number built 250 (1998) |
none |
| Pipistrel Twister | Ultralight trike | By October 2018 it was listed as a “legacy” product and production had ended. | Production completed (2018) | Flight Team Spider |
Current Airplanes
Pipistrel sorts its aircraft into general aviation, light sport-microlight, gliders, and other categories based on the most recent data available. Therefore, I will examine the current offerings featured in the firm’s online store, which means that only ten aircraft out of the original twenty-one are left for examination.
General Aviation
As a company, Pipistrel Aviation categorizes “general aviation” into four categories. These four are Panthera, Explorer, Velis Club, and Velis Electro. Each of these types is distinct from the others thanks to its own unique set of applications and characteristics.
The Velis electro is the first aircraft in the world to receive certification to fly exclusively on electric power, and it is frequently used in flight training. Electro’s sibling, the Velis Club, is designed for teaching, towing gliders, and long-distance cross-country flights. There is a lot of value in learning about these planes; they are all brilliant and unique.
Pipistrel Panthera
Panthera is, in my view, Pipistrel’s most attractive model. Their concentration appears to be on the trainer or high-wing affordable versions when I consider their other types. However, Pipistrel Panthera gave me the impression that they were trying to make a genuine sporty general aviation aircraft this time.
At AERO Friedrichshafen in 2012, Pipistrel debuted the Panthera to the general public for the first time. The lightweight Pipistrel Panthera, which made its maiden flight on April 4, 2013, is now available for purchase.
Design
Pipistrel Panthera is an attractive aircraft because of its four-seater cabin, sleek shape, and aerodynamic low-wing T-tail configuration. The airplane costs $600,000, and 200 knots are possible while cruising. The all-composite airframe has a low-drag profile and a slick finish. It is the only low-wing design Pipistrel has.
I felt right away that this would be a fantastic substitute for the hugely popular Cirrus SR22 when I saw the incredibly sleek shape and wide windows. I understand how modern programs and technology enable us to create considerably slimmer designs with really organic and aerodynamic shapes that are built for performance. I think it’s a fantastic airplane for anyone who wishes to buy a high-performance piston aircraft and enjoy it with their friends and family.
The tight cowling that directs ram air into a large plenum and the small, carefully placed cooling inlets for the engine are on full display.
On the 260-horsepower Lycoming IO-540 engine of the plane, new Inconel exhaust stacks have been added to improve combustion and lower noise. It has wheels made by Beringer and a landing gear made of titanium, which is both light and robust.
Specifications and Performance
The Panthera, made by Pipistrel, has space for four people (three passengers and a crew member). The Panthera’s top speed is 359 kilometers per hour when powered at 75%, and about 1,900 kilometers is its maximum range for a group of four people. Panthera’s propulsion comes from a Lycoming IO-540-V4A5 six-cylinder piston engine.
Due to its great performance, considerably more streamlined appearance, and parachute system, this aircraft, in my opinion, can replace the Cirrus SR22. Cirrus aircraft had already employed the parachute system, thus, I find it pleasing to see it adopted by Pipistrel aircraft.
Table 5
| Max Range | 1,900 km (1,200 mi, 1,000 nmi) at 155 KTAS, FL120, with 4 people aboard | Max Pax | 3 |
| Top Speed | 220 KIAS | Max Operating Altitude | 25,000 ft. |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 177 KTAS @ FL150 (full generator power) | Length | 8.07 m (26 ft 6 in) |
| Takeoff Distance | 657 m / 2155 ft | Wingspan | 10.86 m (35 ft 8 in) |
| Engine | 1 x Lycoming IO-540V-V4A5 | Height | 2.19 m (7 ft 2 in) |
Pipistrel Explorer (Pipistrel Virus SW-121A – Explorer)
The Pipistrel SW-121A – Explorer is well known in the ultralight community and among aviation enthusiasts. The most cutting-edge aircraft currently being produced is Pipistrel Virus SW-121A. The SW-121A Pipistrel Virus was developed from an earlier version of the Pipistrel Virus. Additionally, it excels where its sibling fails.
The expert engineering of the Virus SW-121A makes it possible to reduce engine output and cabin noise while in flight.
With the name Explorer, I believe Pipistrel made a fantastic naming choice for the plane. You may also add all-terrain wheels and skis, allowing it to land on uneven ground. I’m also impressed by how inexpensive it is to acquire and maintain, which is another reason I think Explorer is a fantastic name. Explorer can take you on new adventures and can fly almost anywhere for very little money.
The SW-121a is the most technologically advanced CS-LSA (certification-specified light sport aircraft) and the first aircraft in its class with unrestricted commercial use.
Design
Pipistrel used a carbon composite airframe, which helped lower the weight. Carbon composite structures also have advantages in corrosion resistance. The light design of the Pipistrel explorer also comes with low fuel consumption and noise levels. The Virus SW121A- Explorer can safely land on short runways.
With the Explorer, the fact that the side windows are so big instantly catches my eye. You get a lot of visibility when you combine it with the high-wing design.
The Pipistrel Explorer has a wingspan of 10.7 meters and a length of 6.42 meters. The SW-121A is built to reduce operator training costs significantly while providing high-level safety features and efficiency. The Explorer has a ballistic parachute rescue system and a stall warning system.
The Pipistrel SW-121A has a fully operational two-axis IFR-ready digital autopilot and an attitude and heading reference system (ADAHRS) to guarantee precision and safety. The cockpit is equipped with a dual-touchscreen glass system.
Specifications and Performance
A Rotax 912 S3 with 100hp powers the Pipistrel SW-121A. Further, it has a Hydraulic CS MTV-33-1-A/170 propeller with two blades. The maximum allowable takeoff weight has been set at 600 kg. The SW-121A can reach a top speed of 163 KTAS and is designed to travel at 120 KIAS (in smooth air).
Do you recall how I mentioned that the name is ideal? In case you have to land on those unprepared terrains, it also includes air brakes for quick descents over obstacles.
Table 6
| Max Range | 1189 km (642 nmi) | Max Pax | 1 |
| Top Speed | 302 km/h(163 KTAS) | Max Operating Altitude | 5486 m (18,000 ft) MSL |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 222 km/h (120 KIAS) | Length | 6.42 m (21.06 ft) |
| Takeoff Distance | SL 160 m (525 ft) 5m obstacle at SL 320 m (1,050 ft) | Wingspan | 10.70 m (35.10 ft) |
| Engines | 1x Rotax 912 S3, EASA certified | Height | 1.90 m (6.23 ft) |
Pipistrel Velis Club
With low operation and acquisition costs, training centers can use Velis Club in pilot training, glider towing, and personal cross-country experiences. Along with Velis Electro and Velis VR simulators, Velis Club completes the Velis Training system of Pipistrel.
As it was mainly intended for training, it is a stylish 2-seater that is economical and functional. On the other hand, I think it is a nice cross-country aircraft with good economics.
In my opinion, it’s a good aircraft to fly for local general aviation clubs because of its glider towing hook, aerodynamic, heavy-duty landing gear, and general agility and simplicity. It may be run quite cheaply and used as a shared vehicle for enjoyable weekends with shared ownership.
Design
The Pipistrel Velis club is a two-seater aircraft, and Pipistrel offers it in different configurations. The small plane has a parachute ballistic recovery system and state-of-the-art avionics. The aircraft also provides durable landing gear and large panoramic windows, which benefits training flights.
The Pipistrel Velis Club is certified to conduct VFR daytime operations and deliberate spins. Although the Pipistrel Velis club’s original purpose was to serve as training aircraft, it is also ideal for cross-country flights for personal use.
The Pipistrel Velis Club was created to meet any club’s needs, whether for personal flights or pilot training, with a minimal initial investment and operating costs.
Specifications and Performance
The Rotax 912 S3 engine, which provides low operating costs and excellent performance, powers the Velis Club. Its engines are identical to the Explorer’s, and both planes use remarkably similar propellers.
The Velis Club can travel at a maximum speed of 163 KTAS and a top cruising speed of 120 KIAS. It is correct that Pipistrel wanted the Velis Club to function and look like the SW-121A Explorer. Each aircraft has a unique set of advantages and disadvantages.
Table 7
| Max Range | 1189 km (642 nmi) | Max Pax | 1 |
| Top Speed | 163 KTAS | Max Operating Altitude | 5486 m (18,000 ft) MSL |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 120 KIAS | Length | 6.42 m (21.06 ft) |
| Takeoff Distance | at sl 160 m / over 15 m obstacle at sl 320 m (1,050 ft) | Wingspan | 10.70 m (35.10 ft) |
| Engines | Rotax 912 S3, EASA certified | Height | 1.90 m (6.23 ft) |
Pipistrel Velis Electro
Pipistrel introduced the Velis Electro in 2020. It is the first ever type of certified electric aircraft. It is also fully approved for pilot training in visual flight rules. Pipistrel made the first delivery to a customer in Sweden in the same year.
AIAA selected the Pipistrel Velis Electro for Aircraft Design Award in 2021. The award was given for creating the world’s first electric aircraft.
Along with electric cars, electrified aircraft have made significant progress. In my opinion, Pipistrel Velis Electro is a solid first step in proving that electric-powered aircraft will undoubtedly be common in the future. Additionally, I believe it is a fantastic method for Pipistrel to promote itself. However, given the tiny size of the battery pack and the slow speed of the Velis Electro, I can assert that there is still time for electric cross-country travel.
Design
The Velis Electro has a composite structure and capacity for two people. It has a sleek and technological look. Since it is an electric aircraft, it is quiet inside and out.
The Pipistrel PB345V123E-L batteries are a pair of high-performance, liquid-cooled, redundant two-unit batteries that are the foundation of the electric system. The plane’s nose holds one battery pack, and the back of the cabin has the other. A radiator and two electrically driven pumps are positioned behind the rear battery pack to provide liquid cooling. Pipistrel installed two powerful axial fans behind the radiator to keep the battery cool while charging.
The pilot’s primary interface with the aircraft’s electric propulsion system is the 5.7-inch LCD EPSI 570C cockpit monitor.
Specifications and Performance
The electric engine in Pipistrel Electro is quiet, and it only has a 60 dBa noise level. The entire engine is cooled by liquid, and problems like battery high-temperature events are intended to be handled safely by the whole electrical system.
I’d like to draw your attention to two electrical system components. The first point, which serves as a drawback, has to do with batteries. Currently, batteries are too heavy to be used in aircraft, and if a fire does develop, it is very difficult to put out. Because of this, I believe it was crucial that Pipistrel made an effort to take the required precautions.
The second point is a benefit, that it has very low noise and pollution levels. These are significant benefits when considering our rapidly expanding cities.
The aircraft can take off with a maximum thrust of 57.6 kilowatts. It uses a propeller with a 1.64 m diameter and three fixed-pitch blades.
Table 8
| Max Range | 108 NM (200 km) | Max Pax | 1 |
| Top Speed | Never exceed speed
108 KCAS |
Max Operating Altitude | 12,000 ft |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 90 KCAS | Length | 6.47 m (21.3 ft) |
| Takeoff Distance | takeoff run – grass/asphalt 246/241 m (807/791 ft)
takeoff over 50′ obstacle – grass/asphalt 453/409 m (1,486/1,342 ft) |
Wingspan | 10.71 m (35.1 ft) |
| Engines | 1 x Pipistrel E-811 EASA Type-Certified | Height | 1.90 m (6.23 ft) |
Light Sport and Microlight
The Pipistrel Alpha Trainer, Alpha Electro, and Virus SW are the first products of the new Light Sport and Microlight Aircraft category. The design of these aircraft comes with a light structure, ease of use, and adaptability to different purposes. Pipistrelles’ light sport and microlight category is mainly intended for those who want a low-cost, high-performance aircraft in its class.
Pipistrel Alpha Trainer
The Alpha Trainer by Pipistrel is a simple plane to prepare pilots for competition. When weighing price and quality, the Alpha Trainer is hard to beat. The best basic personal airplane for casual, everyday flying consumes only 10 gallons of unleaded fuel per hour because of its robust undercarriage and history of training operations totaling thousands of flight hours.
Back in 2012, Pipistrel took The Alpha Trainer for a spin for the very first time. Since then, it has been continuously manufactured, and Pipistrel will have produced more than 500 Alpha Trainers by 2020. The Alpha Trainer was designed using the Pipistrel Virus as its basis.
Design
Pipistrel Alpha Trainer uses composite materials to achieve a light and cost-effective design. The aircraft has a fixed landing gear and a steerable nose wheel, and Pipistrel specially reinforced the landing gear for training purposes. While it has a high wing, T-Tail design, the main focus was creating a basic and affordable aircraft.
Virus SW inspires the wings. With an improved wing design, Pipistrel eliminated the air brakes as well. Although if wanted, they can be added additionally. The aircraft has a ballistic parachute, a quiet design, and a short-runway brake. Alpha Trainers are 6.5 meters long, 2.05 meters tall, and 10.5 meters wide.
Pipistrel Alpha series also has an electrical version introduced in 2015 named Alpha Electro.
Specifications and Performance
Equipped with Rotax 912 UL engines, Pipistrel Alpha Trainer has a power of 80 horsepower. It can reach 108 knots at 75% power. The cruising range is 324 nm. The Alpha Trainer is approved for stall demonstrations and can work at high temperatures, making it perfect for training. It uses 3.6 US gallons per hour (13.6 liters per hour) of fuel at cruising speeds.
Table 9
| Max Range | 324 NM (600 km) | Max Operating Altitude | Absolute ceiling at MTOM 18,000 ft 5500 m |
| Top Speed | Never exceed speed 135 kts | Max Pax | 1 |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 108 kts | Length | 21.33 ft. (6.5 m) |
| Takeoff Distance | Takeoff – ground roll–at MTOM 459 ft 140 m , takeoff total distance over 50 ft obst. at MTOM 738 ft 225 m | Wingspan | 34,4 ft. (10,5 m) |
| Engines | 1 x ROTAX 912 UL | Height | 6.07 ft. (2.05 m) |
Pipistrel Alpha Electro
Alpha Electro, made by Pipistrel, is an all-electric, two-seater sport plane. Pipistrel developed the Alpha Electro as a carbon-neutral, ground-based training plane. The business claims flying in an Alpha Electro is the most eco-friendly option.
Alpha Electro stands out in several ways, most notably for its ability to fly for just 1 EUR in energy costs per hour. Those teaching how to fly will be satisfied with its speed. As fuel prices continue to rise, businesses and individuals paying a fortune to travel may want to purchase an electric training aircraft.
The Alpha Electro from Pipistrel could lower the price of air travel. Alpha Electro is an ultralight electric sports plane that is reliable and fast.
Design
The Alpha Electro by Pipistrel is an electric-powered aircraft with a carbon-composite airframe, a zero-vibration electric motor, a simple and clean design with few moving parts, and a fuel supply that is itself electric. Thanks to its sleek design, the Alpha Electro requires substantially less time and money to service and maintain than its competitors. Alpha Electro received a unique seat fabric chosen for its durability by the company.
A pilot or passenger entering or exiting this plane won’t have to worry about damaging the plane’s wheels because there aren’t any. In the highly uncommon flat tire event, you can change the wheel in under two minutes.
Alpha Electro has an innovative wing design based on the successful Pipistrel Virus SW aircraft. The requirement for air brakes during landing has been eradicated thanks to the newly designed wing. The freshly redesigned wing structure significantly simplifies the pilot’s control panel. The newly developed flaperons feature a 25° flap travel angle, making short-field landings a breeze.
The Pipistrel Alpha Electro has excellent braking capability on even small airfields thanks to the company’s simplification and rebuilding of the brakes.
Specifications and Performance
The Alpha Electro is powered by a Pipistrel PEM 60MVLC engine, which provides 60 kW 1 min and 50 kW in cruise between 2100 and 2400 revolutions per minute. The diameter of its ground-adjustable three-blade propeller, which is 1.64 meters, is customizable.
The maximum speed of the Alpha Electro is 135 KIAS, while its cruising speed is 85 KIAS at 75% power. It can attain a maximum climb rate of 1.220 feet per minute and a top climbing speed of 76 kilometers per hour. Alpha Electro has a flight time of 60 minutes or more, and this aircraft may travel a maximum of 75 NM at a cruise altitude.
Table 10
| Max Range | Cruise range distance 75 NM | Max Operating Altitude | x |
| Top Speed | 135 KIAS | Max Pax | 1 |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 85 KIAS | Length | 21′ 4″ (6.5 m) |
| Takeoff Distance | take off run – grass 169.2 m (555 feet) take off over 50′ obstacle – grass 265.2 m (870 feet) | Wingspan | 34′ 6” (10.5 m) |
| Engines | 1 x Pipistrel PEM 60MVLC | Height | 6′ 9″ (2.05 m) |
Pipistrel Virus SW (Virus 912 SW 80, Virus 912 SW 100, Virus 912 SW 100 IS)
First introduced in 1999, Pipistrel Virus has been manufactured with many variants. When first designed, it was based on the Pipistrel Sinus. Pipistrel Virus is available in long-wing and short-wing (SW) versions.
The Pipistrel Virus SW’s biggest feature, in my opinion, is the variety of engine and propeller options. When it comes to customizing, Virus SW is similar to buying a car, and for aviation lovers like myself who would like to fly on the weekends, being able to distinguish is wonderful.
It is a strong player in the training aircraft market, and Pipistrel also sells it as a kit for general aviation enthusiasts. Since its introduction, Pipistrel has sold more than 1000 units of Virus.
Design
Pipistrel Virus has a high wing, T-tail design with fixed landing gears. Its structure is made from lightweight composite materials. Inside the cabin, it has two seats side by side. The cockpit of the Pipistrel Virus has a Kevlar-reinforced safety improvement.
On the avionics side, it offers a wide selection with examples like a full glass-cockpit IFR suite with dual-axis GPS-driven autopilot and propeller control systems. Pipistrel is sold with many different engine options and with different configurations. It can be an economical training aircraft or an excellent weekend flier.
Specifications and Performance
Pipistrel Virus 912 SW 100 IS version has a Rotax 912 IS Sport general aviation engine. It is a 100-hp 4-stroke piston engine with a TBO of 2,000 hours. Pipistrel Virus has a cruising speed of 273 km/h at 75% power and a range of 1720 km.
Pipistrel offers engine options ranging from 80 to 11 hp turbocharged Rotax 912/914 series. I believe the airplane is considerably more enticing because Rotax offers such a variety of engine choices. You may just select one of Rotax’s general aviation engines for your Pipistrel Virus, as they are a trusted manufacturer.
Table 11 – VIRUS SW 80/100/100 IS
| Max Range | 1650 / 1450 / 1720 km | Service Ceiling | 6200 / 6800 / 6800 m |
| Max Horizontal Speed | 264 / 283 / 283 km/h | Max Pax | 1 / 1 / 1 |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 246 / 273 / 273 km/h | Length | 6.5 m |
| Takeoff Distance | 140 / 95 / 95 m | Wingspan | 10.71 m |
| Engine (x1) | ROTAX 912 UL / ROTAX 921 ULS / ROTAX 912 iS | Height | 1.85 m |
Gliders
At the moment, Pipistrel features three gliders on its homepage. Those gliders are Taurus Electro, Taurus M, and Sinus.
Pipistrel Taurus M
Pipistrel’s Taurus M is a 2-seater self-launching glider that made its first flight in 2004. Taurus M also has a derivative known as the DLR HY4, a 4-seater technology demonstrator aircraft co-developed by DLR and Pipistrel.
Few reliable side-by-side sitting gliders are now available on the market. And Taurus M, which Pipistrel is supporting with strong general aviation knowledge, is a fantastic option, in my opinion. Given that it is a motor glider, which offers greater flexibility, I would dearly want to possess one and enjoy my leisure time in a side-by-side seat arrangement with loved ones. In my opinion, its most important element is side-by-side sitting.
Design
Taurus M is the first side-by-side microlight-powered glider. It has a two-stroke, two-cylinder retractable engine, and retractable main landing gear. The Taurus M handles well because of its synchronized controls, 15-meter wingspan, and excellent gliding characteristics.
Specifications and Performance
The two-stroke, two-cylinder Taurus M has 53 horsepower @ 6800 rpm. Thanks to its engine, it can take off by itself and climb to 1000 m in 6 minutes. Taurus weighs 285 kg empty and 450/472.5/550 kg MTOW. It has a glide ratio speed of 115 km/h and a minimum sink speed of 94 km/h. The glider service ceiling is 3.900 m.
Table 12
| Max Range | x | Max Operating Altitude | MTOW 3,900 m |
| Top Speed | VNE 225 km/h | Max Pax | 1 |
| Typical Cruise Speed | 120 km/h | Length | 7.30 m |
| Takeoff Distance | take off run MTOW 180 m take off over 15 m MTOW 265 m | Wingspan | 14.97 m |
| Engines | 1 x 2 Stroke 2 cylinder | Height | 1.3 m |
Pipistrel Sinus (Sinus 912 & Sinus Flex)
Pipistrel Sinus is a motor glider that made its first flight in 1996. It became a base design for the other aircraft and gliders Pipistrel produced. Its design had the signature of Franca Orlando from Italy.
Pipistrel Sinus can take off, land on very short runways, and fly cross country. With its 27:1 glide ratio and highly efficient performance, it is quite economical.
I can see the customizable aircraft standing on the Pipistrel with the Sinus Flex. Sinus is a motor glider with a gliding ratio of 27:1. However, “flexibility” amazes me with Sinus. You may obtain a glider, a very affordable cruiser, and a flexible training aircraft with only one plane. You may even add replaceable wingtips with the Flex option. This, in my opinion, is ideal for aviation enthusiasts who cannot afford more expensive solutions.
Design
The Pipistrel Sinus is a two-seat ultralight high-wing motor glide. It has a T-tail, and its structure is highly made from composite materials, as you can see in the later models from Pipistrel.
Specifications and Performance
Pipistrel Sinus is powered by one Rotax 912 general aviation piston engine. It has variable-pitch propellers that can be feathered for gliding. The Pipistrel Sinus combines high efficiency during powered flight and long-range gliding with its 15-meter wingspans.
Table 13
| Max Range | 1200 km | Max Operating Altitude | 8800 m |
| Top Speed | VNE 225 km/h | Max Pax | 1 |
| Typical Cruise Speed | cruising speed (75% power) 200 km/h | Length | 6,6 m |
| Takeoff Distance | take off run 88 m
take off over 15 m obstacle 148m |
Wingspan | 14,97 m |
| Engines | 1 x ROTAX 912 UL2 | Height | 1,70 m |
Legacy Products
Pipistrel Apis
The Apis/Bee is a single-seat, middle-wing, ultralight, self-launching glider with a T-shaped tail. The Apis-Bee gliding performance was excellent, and it had the same wing-and-tail section aerodynamics as the Sinus and Taurus.
Pipistrel Spider
It’s a motorized hang-glider. Pipistrel Trikes are small, powerful, and safe weight-shift UL aircraft. Almost 300 airplanes operate in Europe, North Africa, the Philippines, and other locations. This trike is well-known for its automated ground stability, sturdy composite landing gear, minimal air resistance, little noise, and incredible push from its unique Pipistrel propellers.
Pipistrel Twister
It’s a powered hang-glider with a 4-stroke Rotax 912 UL powerful engine, strong and soft composite profiled landing gear, and full version options. Twister was one of the best trikes on the market back then. With the propeller Pipistrel Vario (variable pitch in the air) as an option and with a fast wing, it became a natural Formula 1 trike.
Others
- Pipistrel WATTsUp ( Concept design )
- Pipistrel NUUVA V300 (Cargo eVTOL)
- Pipistrel Nuuva V20 ( Unmanned hybrid cargo aircraft )
- Pipistrel 801 eVTOL ( Autonomous vertical take-off electric aircraft, under development ( 2019 )
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is the Pipistrel Virus A Motorglider?
Answer: The Pipistrel Virus ( Virus SW) is an ultralight civil utility aircraft.
Question: Where is Pipistrel based?
Answer: Slovenia. Pipistrel d.o.o Ajdovščina is a Slovenian light aircraft manufacturer established in 1989 by Ivo Boscarol and based in Ajdovščina. Its facilities are in Ajdovščina, Slovenia, and near Gorizia, Italy.
Question: How much is a pipistrel glider?
Answer: Taurus M by Pipistrel can be found for roughly USD 90,000. The Taurus Electro, another Pipistrel glider, costs approximately USD 120.000. Another glider, Pipistrel Sinus, can be purchased between USD 115.000 and USD 180.000.
Related read
- Embraer Plane Types and Models Guide
- Mooney Plane Types and Models Guide
- Beechcraft Plane Types and Model Guide
Resources
- https://www.pipistrel-aircraft.com/
- https://www.flyingmag.com/search/Pipistrel/
- https://handwiki.org/wiki/Engineering:Pipistrel%20Spider
- http://www.airvectors.net/avpips.html
- https://handwiki.org/wiki/Engineering:Pipistrel%20Spider
- https://www.aopa.org/go-fly/aircraft-and-ownership/aircraft-guide/aircraft/pipistrel-panthera
- https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/pipistrel-virus-sw-121-light-aircraft-slovenia/
- https://www.flyingmag.com/pipistrel-velis-electro-aiaa-design-award/
- https://transportup.com/headlines-breaking-news/vehicles-manufactures/pipistrels-velis-electro-set-to-break-7-world-records-during-flight/
- https://www.aerospace-technology.com/projects/pipistrel-alpha-trainer-aircraft/
- https://www.emobility-engineering.com/pipistrel-alpha-electro/
- https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/pipistrel-virus-sw-80-aircraft/
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