1977 World Championship in Thermal Gliding, F3B Series A

At the CIAM Bureau meeting held in Paris on April 1–2, 1976, the representative of the Aero Club of South Africa provided an overview of the general concept for this event. Here is an excerpt from the translation of that initial information.

The first F3B Series A World Championship will take place from Monday, March 28, through Saturday, April 2, 1977, at SWARTKOP AIR FORCE BASE in Pretoria, approximately 50–60 km from Johannesburg.

The SWARTKOP AIR FORCE BASE is offering the organizers full support in every respect.

Due to the long travel distances for participants and the resulting high travel costs, the Aero Club of South Africa plans to offer a 3-week program.

A standard economy-class round-trip ticket from Zurich to Johannesburg and back currently costs 3,402 Swiss francs.

However, if the return trip is not taken within 19 days and the trip is not interrupted, the airfare in the off-season costs Fr. 1,729.—.

The APEX fare for the same trip—i.e., when booked at least 3 months in advance and also during the off-season—is CHF 1,005.60.

With this fare, one-quarter of the cost will be deducted if the trip is not taken.

The organizers are considering arranging a charter flight from Europe to Johannesburg. However, details are not yet available at this time.

Accommodation costs will range from Fr. 30.— to 75.— per day. The exact amount will depend on the number of registered participants.

The organizer estimates a total cost of approximately Fr. 3,800 for the entire 3 weeks for official participants and team managers.

Strict transmitter and frequency monitoring will be conducted at all times.

During the competition, a special tent is available to competitors for repairs and rest.

Originally, the organizer had hoped for substantial financial support from the government, but due to the global recession, this support had to be forgoing. As a result, the organizers were forced to raise the necessary funds through commercial advertising and television. However, it is expressly emphasized that this will in no way interfere with the flying activities.

One week after the conclusion of the World Championships, the national F3A FAI Championships will be held in Bloemfontein, approximately 400 km southeast of Pretoria. Those interested in staying in South Africa for three weeks may participate in the championships outside of the competition, with reasonably priced accommodations provided.

For model glider pilots who wish to engage in slope and thermal gliding during the two weeks following the World Championships, the Aero Club of South Africa will provide appropriate accommodations to allow participants to experience the hospitality and excellent model gliding opportunities the country has to offer.

Invitations and further information will be sent to the national Aero Clubs shortly.