A Short Trip to Mount Lema

Mount Lema is a Swiss and European hotspot for slope soaring. Pilots from Ticino and other regions of Switzerland—including those from German-speaking areas and, occasionally, pilots from other countries—travel to Mount Lema to fly. Many of them stay overnight or spend their vacations at the Lema hut. At the end of 2023, Lemamountain asked some model aircraft enthusiasts from Ticino if they would be interested in helping to spruce up the room where the models are stored—an opportunity to showcase Ticino’s hospitality. Part of this room is also used for natural science lessons for school groups visiting Monte Lema. Lemamountain planned to replace the door, install three windows, add additional lighting, and give the room a fresh coat of paint. The modelers took on the task of mounting models from the ceiling and displaying some vintage photos. Brackets were built and metal cables were installed. Once everything was ready, three models were hung: a Fafir, the original of which dates back to 1932, an Amigo 2, and a flying wing from the 1970s. A list of the groups affiliated with FGASI was also included. Judging by the comments, the display was well received by everyone. ■

Text and photos:
René Ruckstuhl