Grob G103c Twin III

G103C Twin III
Role Two-Seater Class sailplane
National origin Germany
Manufacturer Grob Aircraft
Introduction 1989
Status Production completed
Number built 115 (13 Twin III and 102 Twin III Acro)
Developed from Twin II
Variants Twin Astir

The G103C Twin III is a high performance tandem two-seat sailplane made by Grob Aircraft. It replaced the Twin II in production and features a new triple-trapezoidal wing, automatic elevator connection, lower control forces and higher airspeed limitations.

Most Twin IIIs (102 of 115 built) were Twin III Acro models, with G-Limits of +6/-4g. However, aerobatic maneuvers were limited in 2003 by an airworthiness directive[1] and could only be reinstated with fuselage reinforcements.[2]

Specifications (Twin III Acro)

Data from manufacturer[3]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 1
  • Capacity: 1 passenger
  • Length: 8.18 m (26 ft 10 in)
  • Wingspan: 18 m (59 ft 1 in)
  • Height: 1.55 m (5 ft 1 in)
  • Wing area: 17.5 m2 (188 sq ft)
  • Aspect ratio: 17.1
  • Gross weight: 600 kg (1,323 lb)

Performance

  • Never exceed speed: 280 km/h (170 mph, 150 kn) (manoeuvering speed 185 km/h)
  • g limits: +6 -4
  • Maximum glide ratio: 38

See also

References

  1. ^ Airworthiness directive 315-63
  2. ^ Airworthiness directive 315-66
  3. ^ Twin III Acro flight manual
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