Abstract: A folding wing hand launch glider having two modes of operation is disclosed. In one mode of operation a portion of the wings are retracted and so produce a reduced air resistance and lift, while in the other mode of operation the wings are fully outstretched so that the airplane glides. The first mode of operation is used for launching the glider and the second mode of operation represents normal flight. The outer tip portions of the wing is hinged and said portions are released to their fully outstretched positions, such as by command from radio control means after the glider is launched.