Let L-13 Blanik (single-engine conversions)
The L-13M is a self-launching motor-glider conversion of the famous Czechoslovak L-13 Blanik, one of the most widely used training sailplanes ever built, modified by fitting a small piston engine and propeller so pilots can climb to soaring altitude without a tow plane or winch. Converters retrofit existing all-metal Blanik airframes rather than building new ones, giving gliding clubs an economical way to keep flying when tow aircraft or winch crews are unavailable. It keeps the standard Blanik's forgiving handling and strong airframe, making it a practical trainer for pilots transitioning between powered and unpowered flight.
Did you know?
A Blanik sailplane retrofitted with a small piston engine and propeller, letting clubs climb to soaring altitude without a tow plane.
Specifications
| Length | 8.4 m (28 ft) |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 16.2 m (53 ft) |
| Height | 2.1 m (7 ft) |
| Persons on board | 2 |
| Maximum take-off weight | 0.5 t |
| Units built | 165 |
Curated by CatchFlights from manufacturer documents, ICAO Doc 8643 and reference works; values are left out where no source could confirm them. Sources are listed on our credits page.
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