A Look Back: Rarities in Plywood

Flying in the Arosa Alpine landscape is a truly magnificent experience

Upon arrival on Saturday, the participants were shrouded in thick fog. After noon, the fog lifted: the stage was set for the alpine flight displays of our wooden historical aircraft. Things got even better on Sunday. The strong sunshine produced the coveted updraft. There were high-altitude and endurance flights to be seen, as well as satisfied participants.

Thanks to the efforts of dedicated collectors, especially Hans Keller, we have access to these many fabulous blueprints. Drawing and cutting out the individual parts, assembling them on a slipway, covering them with fabric, and painting them—this is how our vintage models, which made history in the 1930s and 1940s, are created. Back then, they involved plenty of adventure and risk; today, they’re remote-controlled and well under control. In contrast to today’s sleek, highly refined aerodynamics, the designs of that era—with their nooks and crannies—feel homey and cozy, and they fly that way, too.

Alfred Genther

June 22–23, 2013

Alfred Genther,
Gumpisbüelstrasse 35,
8600 Dübendorf,
Phone 044 821 04 34

Guests of Honor: Werner Hauenstein, Arosa competition participant from 1942 to 1948. 70 years ago!
Heinrich Zimmerli, designer of the Lerche glider model in 1947.

Ms. Viviane Keller, Stettbachstrasse 5, 8702 Zollikon,
Phone 044 391 90 81
IG
Albatros Antique Model Plan Archive, Walter Wolf,
Forstweg 21, 2545 Selzach,
Phone 032 641 33 39,
wolf@bluewin.ch