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FAI European Championships Chambley France 2025
July 25 @ 10:00 am - August 24 @ 8:30 pm
The World Championship officially commenced today at the Chambley Aerodrome, Hagéville, France (Club ULM Sport et Loisir, 1 bld Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, 54479 Hagéville), with the opening day dedicated to technical checks, pilot registrations, and equipment inspections. Delegations from across the globe assembled at the historic aerodrome as preparations intensified for the competitive flights ahead.
Indian Team Status
The Indian contingent, supported by the Aero Club of India (ACI), is actively engaged in finalizing participation formalities, though certain challenges remain:
-Pilot Sunil – The arrangement of hired equipment in France has not yet been secured despite multiple efforts. The organizing committee and partner federations are being approached to resolve the matter at the earliest.
-Pilot Sukumar – Owing to visa delays, Sukumar is still in India. His arrival at Chambley is scheduled for Monday evening, after which he will immediately begin preparations for competitive flying.
-Registration & Insurance – Approximately 80% of the registration process has been successfully completed. However, a critical requirement remains: the mandatory insurance of €2.5 million per pilot. This insurance is compulsory under international competition regulations, and without it, pilots will not be permitted to fly. The Aero Club of India is coordinating with European partners and expects clarity on this matter by tomorrow afternoon.
Despite these challenges, the Indian team remains committed and optimistic about full participation in the coming tasks.
Competition Task – 23rd August
The first official competition task was held today with the following parameters:
– Task Distance: 45 km (approx.)
– Number of Segments: 5
– Opening of Electronic Device Seals: 05:30 AM
– Open Quarantine: 06:20 AM
– Take-Off Window: 06:40 AM – 08:30 AM
– Maximum Time Between Take-Off and Start Point (SP): 10 minutes
– Landing Deadline: 09:50 AM
In addition to official competitors, provisions were also made for free flying, with take-off permitted from Deck 3, or outside Decks 1 and 2.
Weather and Flying Conditions
The meteorological conditions on 23rd August were favorable for flying. Thermals developed steadily in the morning, offering usable altitudes ranging from 800m to 1700m during peak hours. Winds at varying altitudes required pilots to apply careful navigation techniques, while overall thermal strength was moderate.
Forecasts for the coming days indicate stronger conditions, suggesting more dynamic and challenging competitive flying ahead.
Live Tracking and Engagement
To enhance spectator engagement, live tracking has been made available, enabling supporters and enthusiasts worldwide to follow pilot movements and strategies in real time.
Live Tracking Link: https://livetrack360.com/livetracking/2d/7002
The Aero Club of India encourages all supporters of Team India to follow the progress and cheer for our pilots through this platform.
Looking Ahead
The first day at Chambley Aerodrome has set the tone for an exciting championship. With registrations nearing completion and the first task successfully launched, the event is gaining momentum. For the Indian team, the immediate priority is resolving the insurance and equipment requirements to ensure full compliance and active participation in subsequent rounds.
The Aero Club of India remains committed to supporting the national team, addressing logistical hurdles, and ensuring that Indian pilots are able to compete at their best on the world stage.
