Stemme Aircraft

Stemme builds high-performance self-launching sailplanes in Germany. The S10 and S12 feature retractable propellers that stow in a closeable nose dome — when retracted, the aircraft is a pure sailplane with 1:53 glide ratio on 82-foot wingspan (215 sq ft of wing area). The S12 cruises at 140 KTAS powered and can fly 950 nm on a single tank. About the closest thing to having both an airplane and a sailplane in one.

The S12 is described as a truly magnificent evolution of the already impressive S10. Key improvements include far more stable handling in steep banked turns (the S10 was finicky in such maneuvers), refined retractable propeller mechanism, and updated systems. Both models offer the unique ability to self-launch, climb to altitude under power, then shut down and soar for hours — combining powered cross-country with pure glider performance.

Stemme motorgliders are premium German engineering — prices reflect the sophistication of a retractable-prop self-launching sailplane with 82-foot carbon fiber wings. For serious soaring pilots who also want to self-launch and travel cross-country, the Stemme eliminates the need for a tow plane and offers touring capability no conventional glider can match. The small production numbers mean limited resale market but strong value retention.