Model Airplanes in the Skies Above Eglisau

This event was not only one of the usual friendly gatherings among model airplane enthusiasts, but also an exhibition featuring outstanding pilots and their model airplanes, held at the MGZ model airfield for the surrounding communities. The Zurich Model Flying Club has long been known for hosting such events. On the one hand, it aims to periodically inform the public about the latest developments in model flying, and on the other hand, it seeks to maintain good relations with pilots from other model flying clubs. The model airplanes on display this weekend—both on the ground and in the air—surpassed previous events in many respects. Variety, action, fun, and excitement were the order of the day this weekend, making it a true “Flying Circus.” The enthusiastic and large audience of model aviation fans repeatedly rewarded the performances with loud applause. From the air, we were greeted by a Mann-

a Piper and a Bücker. Both aircraft took off from the Schaffhausen airfield and performed several flight maneuvers, to the extent that these were feasible given the aircraft’s capabilities and the controlled airspace. In this way, they made their presence known to us and the spectators.

48 model airplanes—ranging from vintage models to jets—were flown by 31 guest model pilots from 15 different model flying clubs. A feast for the eyes, both on the ground and in the air. There was a Bücker with a wingspan of 2.64 meters and a weight of 15 kg, as well as replica model airplanes from the 1920s. Also impressive were the P-51 Mustang and the Spitfire MK9, military aircraft from World War II. A twin-engine B-25 bomber with a wingspan of 3.08 meters and a weight of 24 kg particularly stood out. A special highlight was an English SAE-5A biplane, which fired machine-gun bursts just like the “real thing” and finally blew up a small Styrofoam hut by “dropping a bomb” on it. Two Yak-54 model airplanes demonstrated the fine art of synchronized flight. The modern era was rounded out with various turbine-powered model airplanes such as the Tornado, Hornet, Panter F9, Tucano, and others. Gliders from various eras were also well represented, including state-of-the-art model motor gliders. Of course, helicopters were also on hand, and the Depron pilots put on a fun aerial fox hunt for a change of pace. To the delight of the many children, it sometimes “rained” about two kilograms of small tents from the sky, which were dropped onto the airfield from a Wilga.

Spectators asked with interest about details such as aerodynamics, flight mechanics, engines, performance, etc., of the model airplanes on display. The pilots demonstrated nearly silent flight with large electric model airplanes towing relatively heavy gliders. Just a few years ago, no one would have dared to speak of a bright future for electric model airplanes.

The opportunity was also taken to ask some spectators for their opinions regarding model aircraft noise and environmental impact. Some had no opinion on the matter, as they had come for the festival food and drinks. Others came because they wanted to experience something new and pass the time. Most spectators had come because they are enthusiastic about model aviation. They don’t care whether the model airplanes are equipped with electric motors, piston engines, or gas turbines. However, two people who attended said they saw no point in model aviation, found the spectacle “out of place,” and added that such activities should be banned because, in their opinion, this type of flying is dangerous and lacks entertainment value. It seems that those opposed to the noise and environmentalists are slowly running out of arguments when it comes to model aviation.

We would like to take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the model airplane pilots who came to Eglisau.

René A. Schnorf,
Honorary President,
Zurich Model Aircraft Club