The Celair GA-1 Celstar is a South African mid-wing, single-seat, aerobatic glider that was designed by Pieter Celliers and produced by his company, Celair (Pty) Limited.^[1]

The GA-1 was especially intended for flying competitive glider aerobatics and the resulting airframe was designed to Joint Aviation Requirements 22 standards and stressed to 10 g.^[1]

The aircraft is made from a combination of fibreglass and aramid. Its 11.2 m (36.7 ft) span wing employs a Wortmann FX-71-L-150/25 airfoil. The ailerons are full-span and mass-balanced. Dive brakes are used for approach control.^[1][2]

At least eight were produced, with two exported to Switzerland and six to the United States.^[3]

In August 2011 there were two GA-1s registered in the US with the Federal Aviation Administration. US-registered aircraft are in the Experimental - Racing/Exhibition category.^[4]

Data from Sailplane Directory^[1]

General characteristics

• Crew: one
• Wingspan: 11.2 m (36 ft 9 in)
• Wing area: 11.54 m² (124.2 sq ft)
• Aspect ratio: 10.9:1
• Airfoil: Wortmann FX-71-L-150/25
• Empty weight: 265 kg (584 lb)
• Gross weight: 385 kg (849 lb)

Performance

• Maximum speed: 324 km/h (201 mph, 175 kn)
• Stall speed: 80 km/h (50 mph, 43 kn)
• g limits: +/-10g
• Maximum glide ratio: 25:1
• Rate of sink: 0.89 m/s (175 ft/min)
• Wing loading: 33.36 kg/m² (6.83 lb/sq ft)

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

• Allstar SZD-59
• Glasflügel H-101
• Pilatus PC-11 AF
• Swift S-1

Related lists

• List of gliders

• Celstar three view and photo