Astir Standard, 1:3.5 Scale Tall Ship for "Beginners" and Experts by Heeber Modellbau

The challenge we set for ourselves was to design a large glider that could be flown even by less experienced pilots (or those who had previously been hesitant to switch to models with a wingspan of more than 4 meters). Flying it should therefore be as easy as possible. The only model that could serve as a template was the successful Astir from Grob-Flugzeugbau. This aircraft is exceptionally easy to fly. The reason for this lies in the size of its wings, which on the original aircraft are approximately 2 square meters larger than on any other standard-class aircraft.

In the model, the wings are constructed using a combination of Styrofoam, veneer, and fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). The main spar, leading edge, and trailing edge are additionally reinforced with FRP inserts. The Wortmann FX 61-161-140/60-126 profile combination was selected. The horizontal stabilizer is designed as a pendulum-type stabilizer. The fuselage is painted white

, including the original instrument panel and seat shell.

The aircraft’s weight, ready to fly, is approximately 4.8 kg. The wing loading thus reaches the favorable value of 45 g/dm².

All model aircraft enthusiasts are no doubt familiar with the unsightly transport damage their models sustain. We’ve remedied this by manufacturing a fiberglass transport case that can be easily transported on any passenger car (a ski rack is sufficient).

The model is available in two versions:

Version A: Ready-to-fly model, fully equipped with a scale cockpit. Just screw in the servos—and fly.

Version B: Semi-finished model. The work required is limited primarily to finishing touches and installing the radio control system and Bowden cables.

Model Variant A

Ready-to-fly model with all extras, such as retractable landing gear, paint job, etc., including a fiberglass transport case: CHF 985.—

Model Variant B

Pre-assembled model with all necessary parts. Pendulum-type horizontal stabilizer. Excludes retractable landing gear and air brakes. The work required is limited to the finish, the installation of the Bowden cables, and the radio control system. Includes a fiberglass transport case: CHF 545.—

Model Variant C

Same as Variant B, but with a damped horizontal stabilizer. Includes a fiberglass transport case: CHF 450.—

Matching epoxy wings and a Twin Astir fuselage will be available shortly.

All models available starting December 15, 1978.