The PZL Bielsko SZD-30 "Pirat" is a Polish single-seat glider that was designed and manufactured in the 1960s. Here's what I know about it:

## Design and Development
- Designed by Wacław Czerwiński at Szybowcowy Zakład Doświadczalny (SZD) in Bielsko-Biała
- First flight took place in 1966
- Developed as a Club Class glider for training and recreational soaring
- Intended to be an improvement over earlier Polish gliders like the SZD-24 Foka

## Technical Specifications
- Wingspan: 15 meters (49.2 feet)
- All-metal construction with fabric-covered control surfaces
- Mid-wing configuration
- Fixed monowheel landing gear with tail skid
- Airbrakes/dive brakes for glide path control
- Empty weight approximately 235 kg

## Performance
- Best glide ratio: approximately 33:1
- Minimum sink rate: around 0.65 m/s
- Maximum speed: approximately 220 km/h
- Designed for both training and cross-country soaring

## Production and Use
- Manufactured at PZL Bielsko (formerly SZD)
- Widely used in Polish aero clubs
- Exported to several countries
- Popular as a transition glider between basic trainers and high-performance machines
- Some examples remain in service today, particularly in Eastern European countries

The SZD-30 Pirat represented an important step in Polish glider development and helped establish Poland's reputation for producing quality sailplanes at competitive prices.
