Scheibe Aircraft

The Scheibe SF-25 Falke (Falcon) was probably the first practical touring motorglider, with about 1,500 built since 1963. German-designed with license production in Italy, France, and the UK (Slingsby). Current SF-25C models use Rotax 912 engines (80-115 HP). The Falke combines powered flight capability with genuine gliding performance — shut the engine down and soar thermals like a sailplane.

The Falke is ideal for transitioning from powered flight to soaring — self-launch eliminates the need for tow planes, and the docile handling and benign stall behavior make it forgiving for students. Easy, pleasant flying characteristics are a hallmark. Early models used 2-stroke or VW-based engines; modern SF-25C versions with Rotax 912 are far more reliable. About 1,500 built provides a decent used market in Europe.