July 2023: An Unforgettable Week for Passionate Young People

Under the sponsorship of the Pro Aéro Foundation, young people aged 14 to 16 spent an unforgettable week filled with hands-on workshops, theory sessions, sports, games, and a tour of Samedan Airport.

They came from all of Switzerland’s linguistic regions and were therefore divided into small groups of no more than 16 people, including two groups from French-speaking Switzerland. Engaging presentations on aerodynamics, the Swiss Air Force, Skyguide, Swiss, MeteoSwiss, AECS, and the Swiss Space Association—all delivered in their native languages—were spread throughout the week. A day-long visit to Samedan Airport introduced them to other aspects of the aviation world: air rescue by Rega, model aircraft, gliding, free flight, and parachute scouts—not to mention a tour of the main military aircraft: Puma/Cougar, PC7, and EC635 on the Samedan tarmac. They’re treated to in-flight demonstrations of civilian helicopters (Heli-Bernina) on utility missions, a Super Puma demonstration, parachute jumps, and a flyby of a Swiss Air Force F/A-18... In short, there’s plenty to take in!

The 14- to 16-year-old age group is ideal for enrolling in the SPHAIR program—a preparatory aviation course that fits right into their school schedule. Throughout the week, instructors answered all the participants’ questions.

To better grasp the aerodynamic concepts taught, nothing beats building flying machines and testing them in practice. Each participant went home with the projects they’d built during the week: boomerangs, gliders, rockets, hot-air balloons, and kites.

And as if all that weren’t enough to satisfy these young people’s boundless energy and enthusiasm, some surprises were in store for them: a dawn flight in a tethered hot-air balloon, a flight simulator, and some wild sports games!

The atmosphere at this camp contributes to this unforgettable experience, as the young people build friendships within their own group and by interacting with other language groups. They eat their fill—and then some—thanks to the delicious meals prepared by a generous and capable kitchen staff. A large team of volunteers is on hand to ensure the smooth operation of the entire facility, tend to any minor injuries, and look after everyone’s well-being. They, too, enjoy getting together every year in a friendly atmosphere and giving their time generously.

Registration is now open for the 40th anniversary edition of Jula, July 28–August 3, 2024:

<https://www.jula-proaero.ch>