The SZD-30 Pirat is a Polish single-seat glider designed and manufactured by PZL Bielsko (formerly known as Szybowcowy Zakład Doświadczalny - SZD). Here's what I know about it:

## Design and Development
- Designed in the early 1960s by a team led by Adam Meus
- First flight occurred in 1966
- Intended as a club-class glider for training and cross-country flying
- Designed to fill the gap between basic trainers and high-performance competition gliders

## Technical Specifications
- Single-seat, mid-wing configuration
- All-metal construction (primarily aluminum)
- 15-meter wingspan
- Fixed landing gear with a retractable main wheel
- Equipped with airbrakes/spoilers
- Glide ratio of approximately 33:1
- Empty weight around 230 kg
- Maximum takeoff weight approximately 360 kg

## Production and Use
- Produced from the late 1960s through the 1970s
- Several hundred units manufactured
- Widely used in Polish aero clubs and flying schools
- Exported to various countries in Eastern Europe and beyond
- Popular as an intermediate trainer and for recreational soaring

## Flying Characteristics
- Known for docile and forgiving handling characteristics
- Good performance for its class
- Suitable for aerobatics (within limits)
- Reliable and robust construction made it popular with clubs

The SZD-30 Pirat played an important role in Polish gliding history and helped train many pilots during the Communist era and beyond. Some examples remain in use today, particularly in Eastern European countries.
