5th F5J Swiss Championships in Weinfelden

In the technical terminology of the FAI competition rules, it’s described—somewhat complicatedly—as “Thermal Duration Gliders with Electric Motor and Altimeter / Motor Run Timer.” Despite this difficult name, the class is booming.

The challenge for these ultralight electric gliders, equipped with wings spanning up to 4 m, consists of a 10-minute endurance flight and a precision landing. However, the motor may not run for more than 30 seconds during the climb—though it is not required to do so. The highest altitude is measured during the 10-second period between the moment the motor is turned off and 10 seconds later. If the model is at an altitude of more than 200 m at that point, three points are deducted per meter; below that, only half a point is deducted. Flights are conducted in groups.

For this wonderful electric flight category, the CIAM established two World Championship classes (or European Championships) from the very beginning: one for juniors and one for seniors. At this year’s Swiss Championships, 8 juniors and 29 seniors were ranked. The FAI “Juniors–Seniors” concept worked well again this year. The organization at MG Weinfelden went exceptionally smoothly. Thank you very much.

Emil Giezendanner

As always, the rankings are available at: www.modellflug.ch