Äffdreias in Mühlethurnen

These days, F3A models are very quiet; they move slowly but travel quite a distance from the runway at a constant speed.

Like thick, fat carp with smooth bodies, yet colorful and sporting a modern dorsal fin¹, they trace giant circles.

Judges sit at the edge of the runway with pencils held outstretched. They haven’t recognized the plane—flying toward the sun—for quite some time now.

The flight is two-dimensional, a torment for the pilots: even a slight drift—what a frustration—is punished with a point deduction.

These high-end planes are very expensive and come from the Far East. Only those with money can participate—there’s no room for DIY here!

As a hobbyist, you shouldn’t complain; instead, try a loop yourself. I’ll bike home and launch my homemade acrobatic plane once again!

Ruedi Schmid, September 2008