From Patagonia to Everest: Klaus Ohlmann’s Rides on the Nimbus 4 MD

The Ultimate Weapon for the Waves

When you think of Klaus Ohlmann’s most spectacular world records in South America, one aircraft immediately comes to mind: the *Nimbus 4 MD*. This high-performance, two-seater racing machine from Schempp-Hirth, featuring a massive 26.4-meter wingspan, became Klaus’s flying laboratory. The integrated sustainer engine (the „M“ standing for motorized glider) provided the vital safety margin needed when soaring over the uninhabited glaciers, deep valleys, and rugged peaks of the Andes.

Historic Milestones in the Nimbus 4 MD
With this very aircraft, Klaus pushed the boundaries of what was deemed physically possible in aviation. These key highlights belong on every aviation enthusiast’s radar:

The World’s First 2,000 km Flight:

On November 23, 2000, starting from Chapelco, Argentina, Klaus became the first human to crack the magical 2,000-kilometer barrier in a pure glider—covering an astonishing **2,463 kilometers* in the powerful lee waves of the Andes.

The Absolute World Record (3,008 km):

On January 21, 2003, he achieved his masterpiece. Klaus flew a free distance of **3,008 kilometers* in roughly 15 hours. It remains a historic benchmark in soaring history.

Over the Roof of the World (2014):

Klaus also trusted the Nimbus 4 MD for his extreme Himalayan expedition. As part of the Mountain Wave Project, he flew the glider over Mount Everest to analyze atmospheric wave structures and turbulence at extreme altitudes.

Records

Technical Specifications
Specification Nimbus 4 MD

Wingspan: 26.4 m
Wing Area: 17.91 m²
Best Glide Ratio: approx. 60 (at ~110 km/h) |
|Max. Take-off Weight (MTOW): 850 kg
Water Ballast: max. 168 liters
Engine: Solo 2625 (2-stroke, approx. 63 hp)