2021 Feb.

Obituary of Hans Werner Grosse

There is hardly a glider pilot in Germany who has never heard of him. Hans Werner’s records left their mark on many glider pilots. And he himself supported his passion, gliding, with all his might. Hans Werner was a fellow aviator and more importantly a friend. Over two decades he achieved one world record after another on our gliders.

 

Cartoon of his record flight to Biarritz.

Cartoon of his record flight to Biarritz.

For us, April 25, 1972 is still a significant date. On this day he sat down in an ASW 12 built by us and flew the world record of 1460,8km in a straight line from Lübeck to Biarritz, which was active for more than 30 years. But this was not the beginning of our friendly almost family connection, because already in the early 60’s Hans Werner flew a Ka 6. In 1970 he became vice world champion on the ASW 12, but for him, record flying was more attractive than competition flying. Since then he was looking for the best possible airplane and had a close relationship with us.

Hans Werner and Martin Heide in a conversation at the AERO.

Hans Werner and Martin Heide in a conversation at the AERO.

Our airplanes accompanied him on 43 of his record flights from 1970-1993, starting with the ASW 12, followed by the ASW 17 with which he flew 11 records. Later, with the ASW 22, ASH 25 and the motorized ASH 25 E, he flew 23 of his 43 world records on Schleicher gliders. He flew his record flights with our aircraft not only in Germany, but mostly in Australia. During new developments Hans Werner visited us frequently, because his interest in new airplanes was immense. Of course he had very specific ideas and wishes for his gliders. Being with Hans Werner was always interesting, because despite his great successes he always remained down to earth. He always knew what he wanted and remained true to himself. He did not expect “thanks” for his efforts in supporting gliding, because he did it out of conviction and because it was his passion that he wanted to pass on.

 

With the death of Hans Werner passes one of the most formative and successful pilots of our time. A role model for all cross country flight enthusiasts. A good flying friend who lived aviation in all its facets and exuded passion. His stories, records and the experiences with him will always remain in our minds.

 

Our condolences go out to his family.

 

Good luck on your last flight, old friend!

Hans Werner and his wife Karin in the ASH 25.

Hans Werner and his wife Karin in the ASH 25.