The development of the Cadet TX Mk.1 to TX M.2 led to a surplus of Cadet TX Mk1 wings, Slingsby designed a primary glider fuselage to fit these and designated it the Slingsby Grasshopper TX Mk.1 it entered Air Cadet service and was generally used by the CCF sections at Public Schools. Originally designed to be hung from an A frame so that cadets could experience the effects of the controls, once proficient cadets were then launched by bungee cord on either a ground slide or low hop.
A few more experienced (and brave!) pilots now winch launch these, although the poor performance normally allows only an abbreviated circuit….
Designation | Slingsby | T38 | |
Wingspan | 11.9 meters | Length | 6.3meters |
Wing Area | 174 Sq Ft | Aspect Ratio | 8.7 |
Empty Weight | 133 Kg | Max Weight | 250 Kg |
Max Speed (VNE) | 70 Kts | Glide angle | 8:1 (estimated) |