Jonker JS 5 Rey sailplanes breeze through the clouds

The JS5 Rey, a newly-built sailplane in the Jonker Sailplanes line of excellence, took to the sky for its debut flight on Thursday, 9 November.

It was a majestic sight for all involved to see this open class state-of-the-art aircraft in all its glory in the air for the first time. This sailplane with a 24-metre wingspan is the largest in the collection.

It was a major milestone for Jonker Sailplanes on a cloudy day at the Potchefstroom Airfield.

Photos: Tian du Preez

Prof. Attie Jonker, the main design engineer of the JS 5 Rey, was also the pilot of the aircraft on its maiden flight. His brother, Uys Jonker, also got an opportunity to take this stunning aircraft to the sky for a successful and utterly enjoyable flight.

Jonker stated post flight that this was the best designed glider that Jonker Sailplanes had made and, in particular, praised the overall feel and handling of the aircraft.

Dr. Johan Bosman was responsible for the aerodynamic design of the JS5 Rey, with On-Track Technologies taking care of the engineering of this fantastic aircraft.

According to Mauritz Bonnet, a design engineer of OnTrack Technologies, the wingspan of this aircraft combines performance with handling.

“The main goal is to build the best gliders in the world,” he added. “We want to continue pushing the latest technology, engineering and design aspects to be the world leader,” stated Bonnet.

A total of 50 Jonker Sailplane gliders were expected to be produced this year, with almost all exported to overseas clients.