Summer Camp with the Reinach Model Aircraft Club (MGR)

The aspiring model pilots—including two girls—were divided into two groups. Under the guidance of two MGR members, one group built small gliders out of balsa wood provided by the Swiss Model Flying Association. The other group was taught, using a model airplane, “Why does an airplane fly?” and “How is an airplane controlled?” The theory session was kept brief, because the model airplanes were ready to go and the young pilots were eager to finally take to the skies.

Controlled in a teacher-student configuration, up to four aircraft were soon circling the sky at the same time. The young flight students’ initial caution and tension gave way to enthusiasm with each flight; their self-confidence grew, and their flight maneuvers became more harmonious—or even a bit more daring. In the end, it was one of the girls, of all people, who was determined to fly a loop and, with the guidance of her flight instructor, executed it brilliantly.

Meanwhile, the balsa gliders built by the other group were ready for their maiden flight. After a few test flights and some fine-tuning of the wing and tail settings, they competed to see whose glider could fly the longest distance.

Time literally flew by. At halftime, the model builders moved to the flight school, and the newly minted pilots then set about assembling the hand-launched gliders.

The summery weather and fresh air worked up everyone’s appetite and thirst, which were satisfied with the drinks provided and a large bag of “Basler Lägerli.”

Everyone involved had a great time during the two afternoons with the Ferienpass kids. Let’s hope the participants caught the “model flying” bug and will soon be counted among the next generation of model pilots.