19th Huttwil Model Kit and DIY Building Meetup

The actual pilgrimage to Mecca begins on June 26 and ends on July 1. Our model-building Mecca on “Huttuberg” kicks off as early as June 24!

As is usually the case, we’re traveling to Huttwil on Friday so we can set up at the “Grüebli” at our own pace. It’s really amazing: Even in the middle of Friday afternoon, the place is teeming with members of MG Huttwil, who are already hard at work setting up the infrastructure. Many clubs could take a cue from how a group of like-minded people can work together in harmony.

On Saturday, over 60 registered participants will present their homemade aircraft, some of which they designed themselves or built from blueprints. MG Huttwil enjoys a high level of understanding from residents living around the airfield—something that shouldn’t be taken for granted these days. During the briefing, pilots are reminded to stay within the permitted airspace as much as possible and not to take any unnecessary risks.

Organizing Committee Chair Christian Eggimann also tells me that immediate neighbors are invited to the model aircraft meet with a meal voucher and make active use of it. This makes it doubly important that the organizer’s rules be followed.

This year, unlike usual, there aren’t many different models in the air on Saturday because a strong Bise wind is blowing diagonally across the runway in Huttwil. As a result, many models remain on the ground, since the risk of losing a model aircraft is too great for some pilots. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to see—in the aircraft display area, which is open to all visitors, you can best appreciate the intricate details of these “works of art.” Lively discussions also break out spontaneously, where tips and tricks are exchanged. Talking shop has a long-standing tradition in Huttwil anyway; as a result, many people take home a good dose of motivation to start their own project or finish one they’ve already begun.

For this very reason, there’s no need to worry about the homebuilder’s meetup in Huttwil; as long as the MG Huttwil takes on the effort, we model aircraft enthusiasts will continue to “make the pilgrimage” to Huttwiler Berg.

On Saturday evening, some participants usually leave the gathering and begin their journey home—which can be quite long for some—but there are also those who spend the night at the “Grüebli.”

Traditionally, the air show takes place on Sunday. Models—which can be purchased as semi-finished kits or as fully assembled aircraft—are also presented to the public. However, the focus is on homebuilt models. This draws a large crowd of spectators, who can marvel at a rich and varied program. On Sunday, new pilots also arrive and join the field of participants. The wind has completely died down on Sunday; the windsock hangs limply, and the pilots are like young calves allowed to leave the barn for the first time: everyone wants to fly.

The flight control team has a sophisticated system that has worked flawlessly for years. Every now and then, a bit of tact is required, as there are pilots whose patience is running a bit thin. Every participant who wants to present their model aircraft to the spectators gets the chance to do so.

The range of aircraft on display starts at about 20 cm wingspan and goes up to an estimated 4 meters. That’s what makes this event so appealing. It starts with small, affordable models and takes us all the way to large, complex aircraft. →

The MG Huttwil is a prime example of a harmonious model flying club. Being able to witness such a club in action fills me with optimism for the future. I’m already looking forward to 2024—the 20th gathering!

Markus Nussbaumer