Jetting Around on the Upwind

PSS—what does that actually mean, and what kinds of models fall under this category? PSS stands for Power Scale Soaring. This fascinating category of glider models actually originated in England. Articles about them have appeared from time to time in German trade magazines. I’d like to describe these models in a bit more detail below. They are all replicas of propeller- or jet-powered aircraft—both military and civilian—that were once in service or still are, modified so that they can be flown as pure gliders on a slope. So, from the abbreviation and translation of the three letters, we can deduce the following: “Power” for the propulsion, “Scale” for the fidelity to the original, and “Soaring” for flying or climbing.

These models have fascinated me for quite some time, and I also knew that there are a few PSS pilots in Switzerland, though they all build and fly their models on their own. About a year ago, this situation prompted me to publish a call for interest in various model-building magazines, with the aim of bringing these PSS enthusiasts together into an interest group. The call was well received, so in September 1994 we were able to found the Power Scale Soaring Swiss Interest Group, hereinafter referred to as IG PSSAS. The founding took place in Central Switzerland in the Biel-Kinzig area. The Föhn, Uri’s oldest wind, blew away the initial rain clouds and treated us to a beautiful day—just right for our PSS models. We weren’t actually sure yet whether every slope was suitable for this type of glider. The differences compared to the English terrain are indeed enormous. But I can already reveal this much: It works here, too! The IG PSSAS now has 26 members, spread across all regions of Switzerland. Our second meeting took place in February 1995 in Schöftland. The purpose was to get to know one another, exchange experiences, and discuss the models, photos, and plans we’d brought along, as well as to set our schedule for the current year. Our first flying meet of 1995 took place on May 6–7, once again at Biel. Thirteen pilots accepted the invitation. The weather was absolutely beautiful, as the attached photos show. It’s truly fascinating to fly these models—which are essentially motorized gliders—as pure gliders on the hillside. They really break up the previously monotonous white of modern “orchids.” The PSS models aren’t any harder to fly than normal gliders, nor do they need a moderate storm or anything like that to stay aloft.

There’s really only one catch with the PSS scene right now: there are very few actual PSS models available on the market. It’s true that various suppliers offer a fairly large number of construction plans. But, as we all know, building from plans isn’t very popular. It should be noted, however, that a great many existing motor models can be used as PSS gliders with more or less modifications.

The modifications are definitely found in the nose section (i.e., omitting the engine). Otherwise, you can use the rest of the design as is. Another interesting way to get a PSS model is through your own initiative: find a prototype and build a replica of it, as we already have several in our club that fly exceptionally well. A well-known German manufacturer of model airplanes and accessories has already expressed interest in collaborating with us and would like to fill this market niche with kit models. Let’s hope something comes of it. Has this report piqued your curiosity? Would you like to learn more about these fascinating models, or would you like to see them in flight on video? Or better yet, come to our next flying weekend, which will take place on August 26–27 in the canton of Graubünden, and experience these models in person. Or are you already a PSS pilot or fan, but don’t yet know that there’s now a PSS model flying club in Switzerland? Would you like to simply join our club and help break new ground and do some pioneering work in this field?

Then simply call me at 044/2 02 13, or you can reach me at the following address: Peter Hofer, Bresteneggstrasse 2, 6460 Altdorf. I’d be happy to provide you with further information or send you informational materials. Take a look at the pictures—you’ll be impressed, too.

*Text and photos: Peter Hofer*