Pilatus B4 4.5-Meter 1:3 Scale Sailplane

Since the early 1970s the Pilatus B4 has been a popular Standard Class (15-meter), aerobatic, full-size sailplane, and probably the best-known Swiss glider world-wide to date.

Like its full-size namesake, this 4.5-meter true-scale sailplane is fully aerobatic, flawlessly crafted, and a real kick to fly! Loops, rolls, inverted flight? Piece of cake. Thermalling ability? Awesome! Having 13.7 sq-ft of wing area spread over a 14.8-foot (4.5m) span, your average wing chord will allow you to slow up in a thermal without losing efficiency.

The expertly molded wing is a sandwich shell of fiberglass and balsa construction. The wing spar is made of fiberglass and Herx sandwich materials. The ailerons are made together with the wing and are hinged by a strong fabric tape. The wing attaches to the fuselage by means of a wing spar extension, and secured by a pin, just the way it is in the real sailplane. This wing can really take some “G” forces!

The Pilatus B4 fuselage is a layup of multiple layers of fiberglass, so it can take that not-so-scale landing in stride. The canopy opens to the side on two hinges, just the way it is in the real plane. Its molded seat (included) gets you started, if you desire, in detailing the cockpit with seat covers, upholstered side panels, control levers, a control panel, microphone and map (extra).

The B4 comes complete with the spoilers installed, definitely a nice feature on a molded ship! Check the pictures, you can't even see the spoilers when they are retracted!!

If you haven't explored aerobatic flying, you are missing out on a great skill building experience. Like the 3D planes, aerobatics will teach you many things about orientation, downwind translations, pre / post stall handling techniques, and a new view on control orientation. All of which are skills that will apply to your slope activities, particularly your landings.

Schempp-Hirth air brakes, fixed landing gear and and airtow release mechanism are all standard. Scale markings are supplied.  With basic equipment, the Pilatus B4 requires seven (7) servos, i.e., elevator, rudder, ailerons, air brakes and air tow release mechanism. Give us a call or e-mail us with any ordering or technical questions, we'll be happy to help you make the right glider and equipment choices.