In Honor of the Great Glider Builders

Whether a wooden structure or CNC-milled fuselage molds—both are works of art. Without the great gliding pioneers, the state of glider construction—and the sport of gliding itself—would likely not be where it is today. If self-proclaimed “technocrats” refuse to acknowledge these bygone days, one might suspect envy—or even arrogance.

On a high plateau above our village, we marveled at the brothers Fritz and Willy Fahrni and their beautiful plywood birds. After a string launch, these models glided silently in the evening thermals. Wherever model aircraft flying took place, I would run into the two of them again. While Fritz turned his attention to manned aviation, Willy—even after earning his glider pilot’s license at age 18—remained loyal to model aircraft flying. Not only did he found two model aviation clubs and organize numerous competitions, but he was also a dedicated board member of Region 5 (now NOS), where he helped launch the magazine “Modellflugsport.” I learned a great deal about association work from him. →

In addition to the aircraft carpentry work, the countless small wooden and metal parts are among the most labor-intensive repair tasks.

Willy Fahrni in his element.

Model airplane enthusiasts and “man-carriers” were able to inspire one another—a situation that strongly recalls the MG Zurich workshop (presumably from 1938 to 1942). The young model airplane enthusiasts certainly learned a thing or two from Willy about organization, precision, and reliability (which would be worth a story of its own: the topic of “leadership by example”). Later, Willy moved to a more spacious workshop in the industrial park.

As is the case everywhere, old items are carelessly tossed into a corner for decades. Many vintage gliders fared no better. In hangars, barns with leaky roofs, and other damp spaces, they are left to decay. Mice and insects do their part to wreak havoc. If it weren’t for a handful of enthusiasts who recognized the great historical value of these aircraft and were able to carry out or arrange for their restoration, there would likely be almost nothing left. There are reportedly still around 100 wooden gliders in Switzerland. Now that the last expert on wooden airplanes at the FOCA has retired, no support can be expected from that agency. Courses for the wood/fabric license were held in Switzerland until 2019. Willy passed the exam for his aircraft mechanic’s license in 2013. Today, training and continuing education take place mainly in Germany. Anyone who admires the beautiful shapes made of laminated wood will soon realize that Willy is a trained model carpenter (now known as a mold maker with an EFZ certificate). His masterpieces include, among other things, thermoforming molds for glider cabins.

These included, among others, a K6E and the MOSWEY 4a, HB-522, which had been brought back from England. After a complete overhaul that took over 4,000 work hours—including the construction of a new trailer—the MOSWEY 20002 was able to take to the skies once again.

He was fortunate to have a truly wonderful, supportive environment: a mechanical workshop, a carpentry shop, and, time and again, very dedicated, helpful colleagues such as Erwin and Köbi. Without them, he would hardly have been able to complete these projects, Willy remarked self-critically. For him, this isn’t a business. His hourly wage is set so that he doesn’t have to cover any costs out of pocket. The motivation behind his incredible creativity is his enthusiasm for wooden airplanes and the achievements of our aviation pioneers. Aviation needs idealists like you, dear Willy. With heartfelt thanks.

Photos: Fahrni and Giezendanner

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