Fascination with Model Building, Friedrichshafen 2012

And right at the entrance to the West Foyer, the model aircraft builders were greeted by the first exciting air show put on by the indoor pilots. Of course, the quadcopters were the crowd-pleasers this year. In all their variations—from fire-spewing models to LED-lit UFOs—these four-propeller-driven aircraft performed daring maneuvers within the West Foyer’s flight area, which was secured with nets. Countless people crowded around the barriers to experience this spectacle up close.

Hall 3 was also a paradise for model aircraft builders, bringing a tear of excitement to the eyes of more than a few visitors. Model aircraft building at its very finest. The latest the market has to offer. Whether it was the refined Valach engines by Toni Clark or the chrome-plated Evolution 7-cylinder 4-stroke radial engine UMS RADIL UT 7-260 B, all these technically sophisticated piston engines sparked a veritable wave of enthusiasm among modelers. Or take the new model kit from four-time electric flight world champion Freudenthaler: the MAX-ION aircraft. This booth, too, was packed with

the visitors and had the pilot explain the new equipment to them. But even small new products on the market that don’t put too much of a strain on the wallet were very well received by the audience. Take, for example, the propeller protectors from Stabilo Achnitz. Made of neoprene, they fit over the delicate propeller like a second skin.

Fascination Model Building. A fantastic trade show that attracts even more exhibitors and visitors every year and is an absolute must-see for every model builder.

The organizer, Messe Sinsheim GmbH, is already looking forward to your visit to Lake Constance in 2013, when it’s time once again for “Fascination Model Building Friedrichshafen.” ■

Eddi Nothelfer