The Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 is a single-seat glider developed for Open Class competition flying. Discover Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 aircraft for sale worldwide on AvPay. Browse active Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 listings and find available aircraft across the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and South America. Connect directly with aircraft brokers, private sellers, flying clubs, flight schools and manufacturers. Explore the full inventory of aircraft for sale on AvPay here!
Finding a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 for Sale on AvPay
AvPay offers a global marketplace for the Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 sailplane, connecting buyers and sellers across the USA, North America, UK, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, South America and beyond. Browse Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 aircraft for sale listings and compare classic Open Class gliders from different years and variants.
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Interesting facts about the Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2
✈ The Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 first flew in April 1971 and the type became a headline Open Class sailplane through the 1970s competition era.
✈ Klaus Holighaus led the design, bringing Schempp-Hirth’s flapped sailplane know how into a long span glider built for high speed cross country tasks.
✈ The wing spans 20.3 metres and uses a multi section layout to make rigging and trailering more practical for owners who travel to contests.
✈ Camber changing flaps let pilots tune the wing for climbing, cruising and landing, which matters when you fly the Nimbus 2 in mixed soaring conditions.
✈ The Nimbus 2 achieved major competition results, including Open Class World Gliding Championship wins in 1972 and 1974.
✈ Schempp-Hirth equipped the type with effective airbraking solutions across the production run, including later developments that changed landing control feel between variants.
✈ The Nimbus 2 became a record capable sailplane, with pilots using it for long distance tasks and landmark flights during its prime years.
✈ The Nimbus 2 line later progressed into the Nimbus 3, but many buyers still seek the Nimbus 2 for its classic handling, proven structure and Open Class presence.
Model Variants for buyers to consider when purchasing a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2
The Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 family includes the Nimbus 2, Nimbus 2B, Nimbus 2C, Nimbus 2CS, Nimbus 2M and the Skopil Nimbus II-S conversion. The Nimbus 2B introduced a conventional fixed tailplane to improve pitch behaviour, while the Nimbus 2C brought key updates focused on braking and structural refinement, including versions offered with carbon fibre flying surfaces on some builds. Nimbus 2M adds a retractable engine installation for self launching capability, which changes weight, systems complexity and maintenance planning. The Nimbus 2CS was a single modified example with increased span, while the Skopil Nimbus II-S reflects a rare one off conversion that matters mainly to collectors and specialist buyers.
Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 Specifications
Information provided here is as a guide only. This information should not be used for flight planning or other aircraft operations. Aircraft model variations, custom specifications, modifications, upgrades and age will have a considerable impact on the details listed below. Please check with the seller, manufacturer or aviation authority for the precise aircraft specifications.
Length: 7.33 m (24 ft 1 in)
Wingspan: 20.3 m (66 ft 7 in)
Height: 1.45 m (4 ft 9 in)
Max Take Off Weight (MTOW): 580 kg (1,278 lb) with water ballast
FAQs About the Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2
What is the Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 designed to do best?
The Nimbus 2 targets Open Class soaring, long distance cross country flying and competition tasks where pilots value high speed cruise between thermals and strong glide performance.
What is the difference between the Nimbus 2, Nimbus 2B and Nimbus 2C?
The Nimbus 2B moved to a fixed tailplane to improve pitch behaviour, while the Nimbus 2C introduced further refinements, including changes to the airbrake and flap arrangement on that variant. Buyers should confirm the exact configuration because landing control feel and maintenance access can differ by subtype.
Is the Nimbus 2 a good choice for private ownership and racing today?
Yes, many owners still use the Nimbus 2 as a capable private sailplane for cross country flying and vintage era competition. It rewards pilots who understand flaps, long span handling and careful energy management.
How should buyers think about trailering and rigging a Nimbus 2?
The Nimbus 2 wing breaks down for transport, but the 20.3 metre span still demands a suitable trailer, careful rigging discipline and enough crew support at busy airfields. Check trailer condition, rigging aids and wing root hardware before purchase.
What should I check if I am considering a Nimbus 2M self launching version?
Confirm engine hours, retraction mechanism condition and fuel system status, then review any maintenance records related to the engine installation. A self launching Nimbus 2M can add flexibility, but it also adds inspection workload and parts planning.
Get help buying a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2
Can’t find the Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 aircraft you’re looking for? Get in touch with an Aircraft Broker to help you buy an aircraft via the Aircraft Broker Directory. Alternatively you can browse Aircraft Brokerage and Aircraft Acquisition Services through the aviation marketplace to help you with the purchase of a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 glider.
Sell your Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 on AvPay
Do you have a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 Aircraft for Sale? List your sailplane on AvPay and reach buyers searching for a Nimbus 2 around the world. AvPay is a Zero Workload Website so you will never have to manage your own listing updates and each aircraft listing will be featured on our Social Media Pages, giving you extra visibility in front of our 190,000+ followers. With AvPay you can generate enquiries on your Aircraft Listings, your Aircraft Broker Profile and through each of the Service Listings you include on our Aviation Marketplace Pages. Let AvPay promote your Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 for sale.
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Find Finance for buying a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2
Finance for a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 often depends on airframe condition, documented maintenance and the exact variant, including any motorised configuration. Share full logbooks, ballast system details and equipment lists early so lenders can assess value accurately. If the sailplane includes an engine installation, confirm engine status and any major work completed because it can affect underwriting and repayment terms. Plan for trailing and storage costs as part of the budget because Open Class ownership often includes specialist trailers, hangar space and event travel.
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Find Insurance for a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2
Insurance for a Schempp-Hirth Nimbus 2 should match how you will operate the glider, including competition use, cross border events and aerotow or winch launching. Brokers usually ask about recent flying time on flapped sailplanes and experience with long span handling, so prepare a concise pilot history. Confirm that the policy reflects hull value, trailer cover and ground risks such as rigging damage and hangar incidents. If you buy a Nimbus 2M or any conversion, confirm that the engine installation and related liabilities are included in the cover scope.
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