Sling About Us
About US
Who we are
My name is Dirk Drees – aerospace engineering graduate, private pilot, and passionate aircraft builder. Aviation has been part of my life since my youth, starting with model airplanes and gliding, and later professionally in the aerospace industry.
In recent years, I built my first Sling TSi – a four-seat touring aircraft that has since flown all over Europe and has been showcased twice at AERO. With my video blog “Apfelkuchen Flugzeugbau”, I’ve become one of the most prominent aviation voices in the German-speaking world. I’m currently building my second Sling TSi in my workshop.
I placed particular emphasis on the composite components during the build – focusing on appearance, precision fit, and craftsmanship. If you’re seriously interested in the Sling, you don’t have to rely on just photos – you can experience it in person: a viewing appointment or even a demo flight is possible for genuinely interested individuals.
My greatest strength lies in supporting interested parties and future builders – from the first introduction to the Sling to assistance throughout their own building project.
With my enthusiasm, expertise, and close connection to Sling Aircraft, I’m the ideal point of contact for anyone in the German-speaking region who’s interested in Sling models – whether as a pilot, builder, or simply an aviation enthusiast.
Our Legacy
Sling History
Mike Blyth, adventurer, aviator and founder of Sling, having earned his wings on trikes, is a die-hard stick and rudder man. Following years of research and a three-year obsession to design and assemble the perfect LSA he delivered a handy prototype.
But the perfectionist in him would not rest. Rigorous testing of the aircraft revealed opportunities for nip and tuck improvements that would transform a good design into a great one.
The Innovators
Mike Blyth Founder
James Pitman Co-CEO
