Gliders are designed with a high aspect ratio, which refers to a wing's length in ratio to its chord. The long, skinny wings produce less induced drag than the shorter wings of a Cessna 172 or a North American X-15. But the shorter wings have better maneuverability. NORTH AMERICAN X-15 CESSNA 172 TOP: STEVE KARP BOTTOM: MIKE FIZER ASK 21 The FAA's Glider Flying Handbook is available free online (faa.gov/ regulations_policies/ handbooks_manuals). AOPA.ORG/FT 39http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals http://www.AOPA.ORG/FT