A family project takes off – Noa, Nik and their helicopter
Sometimes all it takes is one special moment, and a dream is born. For Noa and Nik, two energetic boys from Köniz, it all started when they visited the Air Zermatt base with their grandfather. Inspired by the helicopters taking off and landing, they came up with an unusual plan – to build their own life-sized Air Zermatt helicopter. Together with their grandfather Patrick Vögeli, they set off on a creative journey that not only ended in the creation of a unique model helicopter but was an experience they’ll never forget.
Zermatt, on a sunny day
Our story begins in Zermatt, on a sunny day two and a half years ago. Patrick Vögeli, who lives in Köniz near Bern, visited the Air Zermatt base together with his grandchildren Noa and Nik. A day that was to prove unforgettable for the family.
The heliport was a hive of activity, with helicopters taking off and landing incessantly, transporting equipment and even bikes – a captivating spectacle for adults and children alike. But it was the two boys’ fascination that really stood out on this day. Normally animated and full of energy, they sat quietly, transfixed, the red and white helis seeming to have cast a spell over them.
“Since that visit, the two never stop talking about helicopters,” says the boys’ grandfather. “They look up at the sky every time a helicopter flies overhead, which happens quite often here below the approach to Bern’s Inselspital hospital.”
«Since that visit, the two never stop talking about helicopters»
A helicopter of their own
Back in Köniz, their fascination began to take shape – Noa and Nik wanted to create a life-sized Air Zermatt helicopter. For Patrick, who had already built a sandpit and a pirate ship with his grandchildren, this sounded like an exciting challenge.
The three of them started to discuss their plan. Not only was the helicopter to be life-sized, but it would also have details like flashing lights and spinning rotor blades. The trio embarked on their work with boundless passion and creativity. Noa and Nik even had a small cordless drill so they could do their bit.
A family project full of magic and color
Weeks of sawing, drilling and painting ensued. There were also plenty of laughs, including when the boys painted not just the helicopter but also themselves in the distinctive Air Zermatt red.
The final result is truly impressive: a helicopter three meters long and one and a half meters tall, with flashing lights and spinning rotor blades. The cockpit has two seats, one with a switch for the main rotor and the other for the tail rotor. “The heli’s in the garage, and the boys are there every time they come to visit,” Patrick reports proudly.
Lasting memories
The boys continue to be fascinated by their helicopter, proudly offering demonstrations for friends and relatives at every opportunity.
The last snowfall saw an especially creative episode, when Noa and Nik created a mountain of snow and placed the helicopter on top for their very own simulation of a flight over the Matterhorn.
“Building together brought us all so much closer together,” reflects Patrick. “Not only did we make a model for them to play with, but we also made memories that will last a lifetime.” The replica Air Zermatt helicopter is a symbol of the magic of family bonds, the power of creativity and what a child’s fascination can bring to the world.
Stories with Air Zermatt
Have you ever experienced an exciting story with Air Zermatt and would like to tell us about it?
Then send us your experience by e-mail to alphazulu@air-zermatt.ch
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