RC ACROBATIC FLYING WITH ELECTRIC SEMI-SCALE MODELS

Even man-carrying aerobatic aircraft are becoming increasingly similar. As a layperson, how am I supposed to compare an EXTRA X with an EXTRA Y—by looking at the canopies? Photos from IMAC events also show a strong resemblance between the aircraft models used.

Today’s market offers an almost limitless selection of beautiful semi-scale models. This diverse range includes foam models whose quality easily stands up to even the most critical scrutiny, as well as beautiful wood-and-foil constructions, and finally, full-fiberglass/carbon-fiber models. Not to mention a wide variety of hybrid models. Only a small fraction of these replicate manned aerobatic aircraft. The range spans high-wing and low-wing aircraft from the colorful world of aviation—including air force trainer aircraft, warbirds, and many other categories. Today, they clearly make up the majority at most of our model airfields.

As an observer, it quickly becomes clear that all these beautiful electric semi-scale models aren’t just flown from left to right and back again, but are also used to perform aerobatic maneuvers of all levels of difficulty. This raises the question of whether some of these fellow pilots might be persuaded to participate in a fun competition. Whether as a gateway into the sport or as a nice change of pace. In my view: It’s worth a try. By the way, there’s an opportunity to take your first test flight as part of the Sportflyer event at MG Breitenbach (June 6).

Emil Giezendanner

<https://silentwings.ch/kunstflug-aerobatics>

RC aerobatics with semi-scale models can also be performed by juniors at Sportflyers competitions.

Note: For juniors, there are no restrictions on the size of the model.