[2][1] The single-seat training methods were abandoned at around the time of the SZD-16's first flight, but the prototype was used for research into metal structures in gliders as well as new forms of air brakes.

The SZD-16 was a cantilever shoulder-winged aircraft with the tail supported on a narrow tubular aluminium alloy boom extending from aft of the wooden wings, which attached to the pod-like welded steel tube fuselage housing the cockpit.

[2] After the initial flight trials the fuselage was modified to accept wings from an SZD-22 Mucha Standard, to produce the SZD-16 Gil Z, which was used to test a new form of air brake.

Further testing and the need for single seater aircraft with reasonable performance for club flying, prompted development of the SZD-16Z Gil Z fitted with a wing derived from that of the SZD-22 Mucha Standard.

[3] Data from The World's Sailplanes:Die Segelflugzeuge der Welt:Les Planeurs du Monde Volume II[4]General characteristics Performance