Flying high with aeromodelling

Eighteen models displayed at Bannimantap grounds

A boy flying a remote-controlled helicopter during the aeromodelling show in Mysore on Monday. — PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM

The Dasara organisers arranged an aeromodelling show at Bannimantap grounds on Monday.

Members of the Mysore Flying Association flew remote-controlled scale models of aircraft and helicopters.

However, the show evoked tepid response in the absence of publicity. Sunday night’s heavy downpour could also be another reason for the poor turnout.

Eighteen models were displayed at the show. The biggest model was the Corvus Racer. With a remote control in hand, a boy flew the model across the stadium at ease.

Other models which were flown include the Electric Sky Surfers, Extra 260, Tucano-90, Raptor 30 and 50, Quad and Octa Copter.

The ‘Extra 260’ runs on petrol while the other on battery.

The show lasted for two-and-half hours. Arun Kumar, founder of the association, told The Hindu that the association put up the show to promote aeromodelling as a hobby among the youth.

Mr. Kumar said the models can fly up to a height of 1,800 metres but they were deliberately flown at an altitude of 600 metres for visibility. All the models have been insured by the association, he said.

Informing that the association guides and supports persons interested in taking up aeromodelling as a hobby, he said potential fliers would be trained on a simulator before allowing them for flying live. Deputy Commissioner C. Shikha, who is Dasara Special Officer, inaugurated the show by flying a miniature aircraft with the help of a model flier.