National Free Flight Society

Jury Report on 1980 Indoor Free Flight World Championship F1D

Jury Report on 1980 Indoor Free Flight World Championship F1D

FAI Jury

I KaynesGBRPresident
P AllnuttCANMember
B ServaitesUSAMember

Dates

June 20 to 25

Location

West Baden, USA

Accommodation

Accommodation and catering were within the flying site building and it was a particular luxury not to require daily travelling to reach the flying site. All meals were outstanding in both quality and quantity.

Flying site

The flying site was very suitable for the Championships. The smoothness of the atmospheric conditions more than compensated for the ceiling height being lower than the usual for the event.

Participation

Twelve countries were represented by thirty three competitors plus the defending World Champion.

Competition

The Processing of models before flights was quick and efficient. Wing span was measured both by a hanging string check and also an optical device. Two flights were scheduled to be made on each of three days, this being chosen in view of anticipated difficulties of crowded airspace at this site. An air traffic controler was designated, with authority to prevent a competitor launching if it could lead to a collision with other models. On the whole this scheme worked well with the active cooperation of the competitors. An adequate number of experienced timekeepers were available. Rods and balloons were supplied to each team for steering models. A very high standard of flying was seen and the result was in doubt until almost the end of the contest.

Observations

The current rule on model steering was found to be less precisely worded than is desirable. The organisers chose to allow the competitors to take the most lenient interpretation, both as regards when steering was justifiable and for how long to steer. In sites such as this it may be beneficial to reduce the extent to which steering is allowed. The Free Flight subcommittee will be considering the state of the present steering rules. Another aspect of excessive leniency to competitors concerned some disregard of the stated closing times for flights; fortunately, the flights made in contravention of the timetable had no influence on the results.

Conclusion

There were no protests and this reflects the high standard of the organisation. The Jury wishes to thank the A.M.A. and its officials for a very successful Championships.