2. Scale Flight Training 2008 in Marbach

Under the direction of Eric Ribak, FAKO F4 held its second scale flight training session. This repeat event was once again organized at the request of several pilots who actively participate in competitions. As in the previous year, the MFV Marbach airfield was made available for use. Nine pilots showed up; it’s a shame that more pilots didn’t take advantage of this unique opportunity to further expand their flying experience without any pressure! As in the previous year, the training was divided
into two sections. In the first part, we focused on the theory of flight maneuvers, their spatial layout and positioning, as well as the airfield itself. The airfield in question has undergone significant modifications in recent years. It has since been enlarged to 12 × 12 meters due to the ever-increasing size of the models and the associated safety considerations. We took plenty of time to discuss all flight maneuvers in detail and to review their

To go into detail about the specifics. To this end, I was able to clearly demonstrate and visualize the sequences of the maneuvers using my 1:32-scale model. We also went over the flight judges’ guidelines. This helps participants understand what the judges are looking for and how the flight maneuvers are evaluated.

After a short break, we began the actual flight training. The pilots in attendance took full advantage of this opportunity with their models. Once again, our chief judge, Michael Bucher
, was available to evaluate the flights and provide feedback to the respective pilots afterward. The weather was at its best this year, which was reflected in the number of training flights. The skill levels of the individual pilots varied considerably. Participants were able to test out different pilot positions during several maneuvers and runs. In the Scale class, the pilot’s position is not prescribed. The pilot must simply remain stationary only during the maneuver—

remain. The most common mistake made by the pilots was misjudging the flight paths to the helipad. Often, the paths were either off course or beside the intended path. Fortunately, this was just a training exercise. Another mistake was the spatial layout of the flight maneuvers themselves; here, too
, it was mostly due to the pilot’s perspective relative to the helicopter. With each practice flight, these deviations became smaller, and progress was quickly evident. An interesting and instructive day was drawing to a close. The pilots in attendance

were able to take away valuable experience, which also served as ideal preparation for the upcoming Scale Contest, taking place on the weekend of September 13 and 14 in Interlaken. I now wish all pilots a successful season free of

technical glitches and with plenty of air beneath the rotor blades at all times. I would like to once again extend my heartfelt thanks to the Marbach Model Flying Club for providing the facilities.

Eric Ribak