Respect old age—even when it comes to models

When I joined the Frauenfeld Model Aircraft Club in the mid-1950s, the older members spoke enthusiastically about the old “plywood gliders,” the incredible distances achieved in slope soaring back then, and many legendary adventures. When I was young, I had built a plywood Flamingo (Willy Tauss) all by myself. I was told that such models were a thing of the past. Hansheiri Thomann took it upon himself to mentor me and passed on much of his vast knowledge to me. The “Hansheiri Kähne,” the top model in the A2 class at the time, set the standard for high-performance model flying. Materials: pine main spars, linden front fuselage section, and everything else balsa. Soon, RC models became widespread, and free flight gradually declined. Today’s models are made of foams, glass and carbon fiber composites, as well as the now-common ARF kits. While amazing things were achieved in the 1930s and 1940s using a jigsaw and a file, today the credit card is the most important tool.

Thanks to a few dedicated collectors, especially Hans Keller, most of the plans from the plywood era have been preserved. The enthusiasm for flying during that time and the admirable dedication of the model airplane enthusiasts of that era produced results that still inspire awe today. In the age of ready-made models available for purchase, this old craft has taken on new significance. Yes, it’s true—no one has time—but you simply have to make time: time and patience. The old construction methods, the old aerodynamics, the old atmosphere—in short, our old values. These old values should be cherished; it’s a noble cause. 

Alfred Genther