A Strong Association for You and the Sport of Model Aviation

Each year, the SMV Executive Board convenes the Delegates’ Assembly, where important issues at the association level are discussed and voted on. In addition, a Presidents’ Conference is held toward the end of each year to discuss the latest developments in all areas and to further advance the sport. Equally important is the association’s work regarding national and international legislation, which has a significant impact on our hobby. For example, an exemption from the new drone regulations was recently

secured for model aircraft enthusiasts. However, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels in this area in the future, as new challenges—such as the U-Space program (active airspace management), nature reserves, wildlife quiet zones, and ongoing stricter land-use planning regulations—are on the horizon for model aviation and must be addressed early on. In the area of sports, significant investments are made every year. This includes training judges and supporting national and international competitions. In addition, we actively support our top athletes so they can perform at their best at the European and World Championships and thereby showcase Swiss model aviation to the world. This year, for example, we celebrated several top finishes, including world champions and runner-up titles. In the area of youth development, we help

organize national events and support the regions in their work. For the Communications Department, the focus is on public relations as well as providing information to clubs and club members. This year, the focus was primarily on safety, with various articles in the MFS and the revision of the Safety Compendium, which was sent to all club presidents.

In addition, the SMV advises and supports clubs with questions and legal matters (in cooperation with our legal protection insurance provider, CAP). The SMV’s support for investments in the clubs’ flying fields is also very popular and plays a key role. Every year, many such requests are submitted via grant applications for safety installations or infrastructure upgrades. In 2023, approximately 20 clubs received support in these areas.

The federation is committed to actively

supporting model aviation and us as its enthusiastic fans, and to preserving our hobby in times of ever-increasing regulation and a growing number of stakeholders. However, this also requires financial resources. Costs have risen in the past and are placing a heavy strain on the SMV’s budget. Currently, the additional expenses can be covered by reserves (including those from the COVID-19 period). To ensure that the association can continue to strongly advocate for model aviation and all pilots, the Board of Directors will propose a membership fee increase of CHF 10 at the next Delegates’ Assembly. At the same time, the Board is working to implement improvements to prevent costs from rising further. This will ensure that funding is secured for the future.

We thank you for your support and your contribution to our model flying hobby. ■*The

SMV Board*