See which FlightGear glider aircraft are available, what each suits, and how to find, install and launch models missing from the Launcher.
FlightGear offers several sailplanes, including the Schleicher ASK-21, Schleicher ASW-20, SZD-9 Bocian and Colditz "Cock" glider. The exact selection shown in the Launcher depends on the FlightGear release and installed aircraft packages, so some models must be downloaded separately rather than appearing in a basic installation.
FlightGear does not have one immutable aircraft roster. Models move between the initial installation and downloadable catalogue, while compatibility and maintenance status can change between releases. Our overview of FlightGear’s gliders and broader fleet provides additional background on these established sailplanes.
Which FlightGear glider should I choose?
Choose the ASK-21 or Bocian for training-style flying, the ASW-20 for higher-performance soaring, and the Colditz Cock for an unusual historical aircraft.
| Glider | Type | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| Schleicher ASK-21 | Two-seat glass-fibre trainer | Basic soaring, circuits and familiarisation |
| Schleicher ASW-20 | Single-seat flapped sailplane | Faster cross-country flying and energy management |
| SZD-9 Bocian | Classic two-seat training glider | Vintage sailplane handling and training-style flights |
| Colditz "Cock" | Historical escape-glider recreation | Historical interest rather than modern soaring performance |
These are established examples, not a guarantee of every model in a particular catalogue. Additional community aircraft may appear, and the depth of cockpit, systems and launch simulation varies by package.
Are all FlightGear gliders included with the simulator?
No; a glider may be bundled, offered through the Launcher’s aircraft catalogue or supplied as a separately installed aircraft package.
Check our guide to FlightGear’s included and downloadable aircraft choices for the distinction between the base selection and extra models. An aircraft mentioned in older documentation may not appear under the same status in every release.
How do I find a missing glider in FlightGear?
Search the Launcher’s aircraft catalogue by both the full name and designation before assuming that a glider is unavailable.
- Try alternative spellings. Search for forms such as
ASK-21andASK21; punctuation and manufacturer names are not always used consistently. - Refresh the catalogue. If the Launcher provides a refresh or update function, use it before searching again.
- Check release compatibility. An old aircraft package can load incorrectly against newer FlightGear data even when its folder is visible.
- Install only one copy. Duplicate packages on different aircraft search paths can make FlightGear load the wrong version.
- Rescan or restart. FlightGear may need to rebuild its aircraft list after a manual installation.
If the model must be added manually, follow our step-by-step FlightGear aircraft installation instructions rather than placing files inside an arbitrary program folder.
How do I launch a glider in FlightGear?
An airborne start is the simplest way to test a FlightGear glider because winch and aerotow support depends on the aircraft package and chosen scenario.
- Select the glider and choose suitable open terrain or a familiar airfield.
- Choose a launch method. Start airborne for a quick test, or use a winch or tow only when the model provides the necessary controls.
- Set adequate airspeed. Starting too slowly can produce an immediate stall before the controls become effective.
- Check soaring controls. Confirm pitch, roll, rudder, spoilers or airbrakes, wheel brake and tow release. A flapped glider such as the ASW-20 also needs an appropriate flap setting.
- Clean up the aircraft. Retract spoilers fully and raise the landing gear where the model has retractable gear.
Why does the glider remain stationary on the runway?
A stationary unpowered glider is behaving correctly unless a tow, winch or other launch system has been configured. Opening the throttle will not move a conventional sailplane, and the Colditz Cock is not a self-launching powered aircraft.
If the glider starts airborne but descends rapidly, check airspeed, trim, spoilers, flap position and landing gear before blaming the flight model. Without an active source of rising air, a steady loss of altitude is normal.
Can FlightGear simulate thermals and ridge soaring?
FlightGear can be used for soaring, but installing a glider does not automatically configure thermals, ridge lift, a towplane or a winch.
The available lift behaviour depends on the selected weather and environment setup. For a first flight, use an airborne start to verify the aircraft and controls; then configure suitable soaring weather once the model is flying properly.