Introduction

The SZD 50-3 is a modern fiberglass/composite sailplane designed for primary, intermediate, and aerobatic flight training by PZL Bielsko of Poland, (producer of the well known Jantar series). As of 1992, the "Puchacz" holds a Utility Category Airworthiness Certificate in the United States. The 50-3 shares the responsive handling characteristics of other sailplanes stressed for upright and inverted aerobatic maneuvers, making it a popular sailplane with club pilots. "Puchacz" is the Polish word for "male Owl", and is roughly pronounced as poo-hotch, (rhymes with watch, the first "c" is silent).

Unfortunately the AGCSC's Puch was wrecked in a landing accident (no injuries). AGCSC is currently looking for an appropriate two seat replacement.

Read Dick Johnson's flight evaluations of the Puchacz here and here.

Specifications

• General:
  • Description: Intermediate and Aerobatic Trainer
  • Construction: Fiberglass Epoxy Composite
  • Fuselage Length: 27.5 feet (8.38 m)
  • Maximum Height: 6.7 feet (2.04 m)
  • Empty Weight: 811 lbs (368 kg)
  • Max Gross Weight: 1257 lbs (570 kg)
  • Max Load Factors: +5.3 -2.65 G's
  • Water Ballast: No
• Airfoil:
  • Airfoil Type: Wortmann
  • Wing Plan Area: 195.5 square feet (18.16 sq m)
  • Total Wing Span: 54.68 feet (16.67 m)
  • Aspect Ratio: 15.3
• Performance:
  • Max L/D: 32.0 @ 48 kts (dual)
  • Min Sink Rate: 2.4 feet/sec @ 43 kts (solo)
  • Never Exceed Speed: 116 kts (215 km/h)