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![]() Glaser Dirks DG-800 series The DG-800A is a single-seat high performance self-launching motorglider with retractable powerplant, which had its maiden flight in 1991 and certificated in 1994. The development took place after a fire at the Glaser Dirks factory had destroyed the moulds of the DG-600. Construction is carbon-fibre with a hybrid carbon and aramid fibre for the fuselage.
The Model DG-800B was approved in 1997, and replaced the original external Rotax 505 engine with a buried water-cooled Solo engine. All versions are standard with an 18m span, while 15m wingtips with winglets are optional. The latter incorporates DG’s “safety cockpit” concept of having an inner and outer shell. Starting with serial number 219 delivered in 2001, DG introduced an improved version with an enlarged vertical fin surface, along with a number of other detail refinements. This is marketed as the Model DG-808B, although officially the designation is unchanged and the same manuals apply. The Model DG-808C is a further development with a stronger undercarriage, new electronic engine control system, and integrated “bug-wiper garages”. It is available in two separate “Classic” and “Competition” versions. The latter has strengthened outer wing panels and the new water ballast bladders moved outboard to allow a higher maximum all-up weight.
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