Freedom Has Returned

Like all other clubs, COVID-19 threw a wrench in our 2020 event calendar, and we were unable to hold our Open Fly-In and Sternmotorentreffen. In October 2020, the board decided to organize this event again in 2021. The closer the event got, the more restrictions were lifted, and since the event took place outdoors, we had no restrictions to contend with.

With a bit of fog still lingering, the pilots arrived at the field early to assemble their models and place them in the designated area. Right on time, President Roger Soom welcomed approximately 30 pilots before holding the briefing. Each pilot could sign up on a board, and the flying order was determined by that list. The safety staff ensured that the next pilot was always ready with his or her model to prevent any interruptions in flight operations. Unfortunately, there was a half-hour delay due to a rain shower passing over the field. By noon, all the pilots were on the field—even those who had overslept—bringing the total number present to 47. At 6:00 p.m., everyone, including the numerous spectators who had turned out, was treated to a free risotto, which was well received.

With the nice weather, 33 pilots arrived early at the model airfield. Right on time at 10:00 a.m., the welcome remarks were given, followed by the briefing, so that flight operations could begin. To keep things from getting “boring,” there were occasional show performances, such as an Albatros L39 flyby and a skydive.

It was another two wonderful days, as many pilots confirmed. The flight control team, led by Hansruedi Burkhard, ran flight operations efficiently so that every pilot was guaranteed two flights. Great emphasis was also placed on safety to ensure that nothing went wrong. The fact that we succeeded in this was also confirmed by the safety officer from the

Regional Association (BOW) Rolf Zimmermann confirmed. Unfortunately, there was still a glitch, which was caused by a technical issue. The safety plan required by the municipality of Oberbuchsiten was successfully implemented!

The organizing team, led by Kurt Ruf, did a fantastic job. We believe this was the largest model aircraft festival in Switzerland this year, and we’d like to thank once again all the pilots, spectators—who turned out in droves on both days—and volunteers for attending. We’d also like to give a shout-out to the festival food stand, which was truly put to the test on both days.

Of course, we hope to welcome all pilots back next year in early September. We will contact each of you personally to let you know when the event will take place.

Heinz Grossmann