Our Mü 30 was completed in 2000 and is a groundbreaking aircraft that combines towing performance with aerobatics. Over the last 25 years, our student group's so called “Schlacro” has gained popularity nationwide at air shows, in competitions and most recently with the big heart in the sky over Munich's Oktoberfest.
But now the Schlacro stands still — not through its own fault, but due to serious damage caused by faulty components.
Subtitles are available in German and English. This video contains flickering light sequences and effects.
For those interested: Development and construction of the Mü 30 "Schlacro" ✈️
The Mü 30 was created in the early 1980s as an innovative concept for an aircraft that was to be suitable for both towing and aerobatics. The construction of the student project began in 1984 with complex FEM calculations for the engine mount (originally for a PFM-3200 engine from Porsche) and the use of the then new material Kevlar for weight optimization.
After Porsche discontinued the entire PFM 3200 engine program in 1992, the students at Akaflieg München made a complete change of course with the selection of a Lycoming AEIO-540-L1B5 engine (300 hp), which resulted in a comprehensive redesign of the entire aircraft.
After receiving provisional certification on December 29, 1999, the first flight took place on April 28, 2000. After some further modifications and final spin test flights, the Mü 30 received its certification as a one-off in the unrestricted special class on February 17, 2011. Since then, it has thrilled thousands of spectators with motorized aerobatics and hundreds of glider pilots in towing operations every year!
What happened?
The engine in our Mü 30 is based on an AEIO-540 from Lycoming. In the course of an Airworthiness Directive, the manufacturer informed us about defective connecting rod bearing bushes that were delivered in a certain production batch — including during the major overhaul of our engine in 2013/2014.
We were therefore particularly attentive during the regular winter maintenance after the 2024 season — and we actually found a conspicuous amount of metal shavings when we opened the oil filter. To prevent damage, we decided to open the engine and replace the bearings. However, we also discovered critical damage to the crankshaft, which forced us to take expensive measures.
For those interested: How the damage was discovered 🔧
We took the engine to the specialist company Dachsel in Baierbrunn to have the affected bearings replaced professionally. The crankshaft was also routinely removed and examined using the magnetic fluorescence method. A hairline crack was discovered — more or less by chance.
Such a crack means the immediate end of the engine: the crankshaft is a highly stressed part that is exposed to extreme forces during aerobatic maneuvers. Even the smallest material defects can have catastrophic consequences. Luckily, we recognized it early on.
What is particularly bitter: at this point, the engine had only completed around 900 out of 1400 permissible operating hours — a total loss, well before the actual end of its life. And spare parts such as the crankshaft have months-long delivery times after COVID — not to mention the costs of over €25,000.
Why your support is so important
The Mü 30 is not just an aircraft — it is a training platform, research object and the centerpiece of our student work. It inspires future aerospace engineers, enables towing and aerobatics and inspires thousands of people at events every year.
With your help, we not only want to repair the engine, but also convert it to a more powerful and quieter model — an important step also with regard to our location at the Königsdorf gliding center, where noise protection is becoming increasingly important.
Donate now - simple & effective
As a student-run nonprofit organization, we heavily depend on donations to enable our research and keep our aircraft operational. With funding for student organizations becoming increasingly scarce, the role of industry sponsors has never been more vital.
You can donate easily, quickly and securely online via the RaiseNow fundraising platform:
If you wish so, you can also receive a donation receipt there.
Alternatively, you can also make a direct bank transfer to our donation account:
Recipient: Akaflieg München e. V.
IBAN: DE50 7025 0150 0017 2830 94
BIC: BYLADEM1KMS
Bank: KSK München StarnbergIf you would like to receive a donation receipt using this way, please state your e-mail address in addition to the subject "Donation Mü 30 Schlacro" in the reference field.
If you have any questions about your donation, please contact us here by e-mail.
A sign in the sky - with your help
In 2023 and 2024, our longtime member and aerobatic pilot Sascha drew a big heart and a pretzel in the sky above the Oktoberfest using the Mü 30.
With your support, the Schlacro will soon be able to fly again — for research, education and enthusiasm in the sky. Every amount helps, however small it may be!
The most important questions at a glance
What is the Mü 30 “Schlacro” project?
The Mü 30, nicknamed “Schlacro”, is a prototype developed by students at Akaflieg München – an aerobatic and towing aircraft with decades of history and an innovative design. Our Schlacro recently became famous for the big hearts and a pretzel that he painted in the sky over Munich's Oktoberfest. Find out more
Who is behind the project?
The Akaflieg München e. V. – a student-led research group with a long tradition in aviation. Many of today's current developments, especially in the field of fiber composites, began here. More about us
Why is a new engine necessary?
A serious technical defect in the old engine makes continued operation impossible. We take the opportunity to convert to a new engine – quieter, more powerful and more environmentally friendly.
How will my donation be used?
Your contribution goes directly towards the purchase and integration of the new engine. Every euro supports active students with a passion for research and flying.
Can I deduct my donation from tax?
Yes. The Akaflieg München is recognized as a non-profit scientific institution. You will automatically receive a donation receipt on request.
Can I support the project in any other way?
We would be delighted if you would share the campaign on social media or with your contacts! Or, as a company, by considering becoming a sponsor of the Akaflieg München.
EN 
DE
Du muss angemeldet sein, um einen Kommentar zu veröffentlichen.