Exhibition: 50 Years of the Hotwings Klingnau Model Aircraft Club

Klingnau (HW-33). On March 20, 2010, an exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Hotwings Klingnau Model Aircraft Club took place at Klingnau Castle. In addition to models from all eras, model kits, and photographs, the numerous visitors were also treated to a real glider. The children especially enjoyed the simulators.

The Hotwings Klingnau model aircraft club, based at the castle, held its second major exhibition last Saturday in the Knights’ Hall. Unlike many other model aircraft clubs, however, the Hotwings were not interested in showing the audience the largest models or putting on the most extensive exhibition. Instead, they focused on showing visitors what is built and flown within their club. For this reason, very few models with internal combustion engines were on display. And these models are used almost exclusively to tow gliders, which then circle silently in the sky. And glider models were very well represented, as this is the cradle of model aviation and remains the predominant category at the Hotwings to this day.

Electric flight has seen rapid development over the past few years. Whether it’s a glider with an electric lift assist or even a large aerobatic aircraft (not to mention the many recreational and indoor models), the electric motor continues its triumphant march through the model aviation scene unhindered. The exhibition demonstrated this impressively. But the early days weren’t forgotten either: Visitors could view documents from the club’s founding era as well as the models built back then. “Do you remember…” was a phrase often heard in connection with these exhibits.

The refreshment area was also well-received; it was a cozy spot where people could sit together and chat, and in addition to coffee and cake, “Hörnli with Ghacketem and Öpfelmues” were also popular. President Paul Rudolf expressed his satisfaction with the turnout and the positive response. He noted that the goals had been achieved and thanked the members for their cooperation and hard work. Even in this anniversary year, the model airplane enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting spring and warmer days so they can once again let their newly built or refurbished models take to the skies. The next event in the anniversary year is a model aircraft competition scheduled for the end of August. Details can be found in the event calendar.