WC Dream machine in action in 2005. (source: SME)
The Red Bull Flugtag air show attracts thousands of amateur inventors and millions of spectators worldwide. Bizarre and innovative flying creations first took to the skies in Vienna in 1992, and since then the event has been staged in iconic locations such as Berlin, Johannesburg and Prague.
In 2005, Bratislava hosted the 50th edition of this world-famous competition. Nearly 20,000 fans of unconventional aircraft gathered on the banks of Kuchajda Lake. Now, 20 years later, on Saturday, September 6, more than 30 eccentric flying machines will once again soar over the Slovak capital.
2005 vs. 2025
Among the most memorable creations at Slovakia’s first Flugtag in 2005 were “The Winged Hedgehog”, “WC Dream” (a flying loo), “Nosferat”, “The Flying Mole”, “Bratislava Castle” and even a “Cheese Roll”. The main prize – a flying course – was awarded to the team Happy Duck. The longest flight, however, came from “Red Arrow”, which covered 32 metres.
Two decades later, Red Bull Flugtag returns to Slovakia with the ambition of breaking records. The current world record is held by California’s “The Chicken Whisperers”, who achieved 78.5 metres in 2013.
Rules and prizes
All imaginative, home-built flying machines designed by non-professionals will undergo strict checks by experts. The rules are clear: the craft must be powered solely by human strength, with no engines or external energy sources permitted. The maximum wingspan is nine metres, maximum length eight metres, and maximum weight 200 kilogrammes.
Prizes await the most successful teams. First place will receive €5,000, second place €3,000, and third place €1,500.
