How wonderful it is to fly in a slope wind

Hang gliding is arguably one of the most beautiful and nature-oriented model flying experiences. Whether with small, lightweight gliders or large, majestic “Super Orchids,” they make our dream of flying come true.

Until now, “official” slope flying has largely been presented to us from the narrow perspective of safety. Yet there are other, overarching issues that need to be addressed: namely, the increasing loss of slope flying sites. This is a sad development. The causes are manifold.

Unfortunately, it must be said. The drone ban in the most beautiful slope-flying areas of Appenzell Innerrhoden stems from the increasing use of drones. Affected model airplane enthusiasts joined forces with politicians and tried to exclude model flying from the revision of the Hunting Ordinance. Unfortunately, the proposal narrowly failed in the Grand Council by a vote of 23 to 21. The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) is also said to have played a significant role in this outcome. One speaker commented: “If the ban were limited to drone flights, then the ordinance would no longer comply with the requirements of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation and the Federal Office for the Environment.”

A cantonal flight ban on unmanned aerial vehicles, such as drones and model gliders, has been in effect in the Alpstein since November 1, 2020.

According to the cantonal ordinance implementing the Hunting Act (JaV), the operation of drones weighing less than 30 kg is prohibited within the perimeter outlined below, effective November 1, 2020, to protect wildlife.

We ask that you respect this regulation. Exemptions may be obtained for certain purposes.

Since model aircraft—at least in Switzerland—are not considered drones, this regulation would likely have been more to the liking of our hang gliding enthusiasts. However, another revision is not expected anytime soon. Finally, here’s a curious detail: paragliding is permitted.

More information from the source:

<https://schweizer-drohnen.ch/>

Anyone wishing to fly a drone over wildlife reserves is advised to check beforehand. According to the Canton of Bern’s wildlife protection guidelines, under “Restrictions on Recreational Activities,” a general ban on drones is “currently not in effect.” However, specific restrictions may be imposed in certain areas. Another interesting point: model airplanes equipped with cameras are treated the same as drones. The Swiss Hang Gliding Association (SHV) has done exemplary work on the topic of nature and wildlife conservation. In addition to legal information, they have compiled an excellent overview.

<https://www.shv-fsvl.ch/>

I think this could also be a viable approach for us. Simple overviews would be a first step.

When flying on slopes in difficult terrain, a motor in the nose—or on top—can be a real blessing. If a “crash” would almost certainly mean the loss of the model, the motor can bring the model back and save it. Wonderful! The electric motor as a lifesaver and “calm-weather booster.” No problems—neither for wildlife conservation nor for hikers.

<https://www.modellflugsport.ch>

Now for the technically advanced electric turbine retractable engines. Today, they are an integral part of flying large gliders. They open up new dimensions for pilots, from high-speed flight to aerobatic maneuvers. Self-launch capability combined with visually invisible propulsion systems once retracted. This propulsion technology clearly belongs in flat terrain and not on slopes. But even there, the surrounding environment must be taken into account.

Fast flying combined with high performance inevitably requires a larger flight area.

Unfortunately, an old saying goes that the greatest enemies of model flying are the model flyers themselves. This probably always applies to extreme cases. I’m referring to “slope grinding” with these very same electric turbines. Admittedly, the sound of these propulsion systems isn’t necessarily unpleasant. What’s apparently bothersome only arises in combination with the use of these devices. The speed—efficiency increases—and plenty of “electric” updrafts tempt pilots into performing flashy fly-bys without paying attention to thermals. This style of slope flying can seem aggressive and dangerous to outsiders. Unfortunately, this has led to flight bans on various slopes. Technically, we’ve gained a lot, but unfortunately, we’ve squandered a great deal of public acceptance—it’s a shame.