DG-505 Elan
The DG-505 Elan is one of the club's primary training aircraft.
A slightly earlier model than the DG-1000S (also owned by the club), the DG-505 is in all respects a very similar aircraft. While it is a high-performance aircraft more than capable of long-distance flights, it is also an easy, predictable and comfortable glider ideal for students.
This aircraft has optional wing extensions which may be fitted to increase the wingspan from 18 m to 20 m, significantly improving performance at the expense of a slight change in handling.
All students at Melbourne Gliding Club will perform their first solo in either the DG-505, or the closely-related DG-1000s.
| DG Flugzeugbau DG-505 Elan - Aircraft Data |
| Country of Manufacture: | Germany | Registration: | VH-VMF |
| Manufactured: | 2005 | Empty Weight: | 400 kg |
| Construction: | Fibreglass / Carbon Fibre | Wingspan: | 18-20 m |
| Best Glide Ratio: | 40:1 (18 m), 44:1 (20 m) | G-Limits: |
+7 / -5 |
| Instrumentation: | LXNav S100 | Maximum Speed: | 270 kph / 150 kts |
| Member Rate: | $0.90 / Minute | Flight Manual: | DG500 Orion Flight Manual |