23rd Free Flight Seminar 2023 – Laying the Groundwork for a Successful 2023 Season

The Swiss free flight community gathers annually at the invitation of the Free Flight Technical Commission (FAKO-F1) for the Free Flight Seminar. In addition to the latest information, the event offers specialized training in the various disciplines of free flight. A key component is the exchange of information among participants and an extensive swap meet featuring models and components. This makes it easier for a newcomer like me to get started in free flight categories. The swap meet was extensive because, thanks to two estates, very beautiful models in the F1B (rubber-powered) and F1A (glider) classes, along with plenty of building materials and various rubber-powered and indoor flight classes, were given a second—or even third—life.

On the morning of the free-flight seminar in Gretzenbach, seminar organizer Christian Guggler demonstrated how to build an F1D indoor model—the premier class of indoor flight. He impressively demonstrated practical tips and tools that make building these super-light models easier. Guggler also organizes courses on building indoor gliders for beginners and advanced modelers. Also that morning, experienced free-flight pilot William Damarell presented his model aviation database.

After lunch, FAKO-F1 President Michi Bleuer welcomed nearly 30 participants to the 23rd seminar in Gretzenbach. He announced the winners of the most important competitions of 2022 and presented the 2023 competition schedule, while also explaining the current EU regulations for drones and their implications for model aviators—regulations that apply to anyone wishing to fly in other EU countries. Alfred and Dominik Andrist presented the Gürbe World Cup project scheduled for October 27–28, 2023. The event is intended to give the global free-flight community in the F1A (glider models)/F1B (rubber-powered models)/F1C (internal combustion engine models), and F1Q (electric motor models) to compete against one another in the Gürbe Valley in Bern. Up to 120 participants from around the world are expected. Dominik Andrist (MV Bern) is still looking for volunteers for the event, specifically to track the models’ flights as part of the timing process; no special prior knowledge is required. It also offers a great opportunity for RC model pilots to experience free-flight categories and models up close.

Michi Bleuer presented the construction methods used in modern F1A and F1B models. Due to the enormous stresses they endure—especially during launch—these models are increasingly made of carbon fiber and feature sophisticated electronic control systems. The pre-programmed control systems manage the entire flight sequence. Successful model pilot Dominik Andrist explained just how complex this is in practice. Using videos, he demonstrated how the “perfect” launch technique places high demands on both the pilots and the models. In this process, the models are launched to an altitude of over 100 meters using a 50-meter cord. Using comparative video clips of pilots Christian Andrist (F1A Swiss Champion) and Alfred Andrist, as well as multiple-time world champion Per Findahl from Sweden, Andrist demonstrated the different launch techniques. In addition to a wide variety of models for all competition situations—and specifically for the tiebreaker round—Dominik Andrist highlighted the physical demands placed on pilots. Ultimately, however, even the best launch is of little use without good air. With the right feel for thermals, free flight is therefore suitable for all age groups who enjoy being active and have a passion for technology and nature. The 23rd Free Flight Seminar was rounded off with a presentation of new electronic components in free flight, which have become indispensable in this field as well. Christoph Bachmann concluded by demonstrating how he can configure his electronics to track altitude “flyoffs.” As I write these lines, four CH free-flight pilots are already back in action at World Cup competitions in Lost Hills, California. ■

*Urs Muntwyler,
free flight newcomer from MV Bern
and MG Interlaken*