Oktoberfest 2025: Absence of the Wiesn Heart lantern in the sky this year explained
In the skies above Munich, Germany, on September 16, 2023, a unique event was set to take place. Sascha Odermann, a German champion in motorized aerobatics, Lufthansa pilot, and chief flight director at Segelflugzentrum Koenigsdorf, would take to the skies in a bid to draw a heart over the Wiesn, Munich's famous festival ground.
Odermann's chosen vessel for this aerial artistry was the "Mu30" or "Schlacro," a yellow speedster that is a regular fixture at the airport and has seen action in aerobatic championships. However, Schlacro is currently in need of external support for its repair, with the estimated cost of the necessary engine overhaul coming in at around 100,000 euros.
The association, Akaflieg München e.V., is seeking donations to help finance the repair of the Mu30. Those wishing to contribute can do so by making a donation of any amount to Akaflieg München e.V. The recipient's IBAN is DE50 7025 0150 0017 2830 94, and the BIC is BYLADEM1KMS. The bank is KSK München Starnberg.
Tim Grassinger, a 20-year-old student studying aerospace engineering at Munich University of Applied Sciences, has taken over responsibility for the Mu30 from a club colleague. Grassinger, who obtained his glider license at 19 and his motor glider license at 20, is currently looking after the maintenance and repair of Schlacro, which is affectionately referred to as a "problem child."
Despite the flight over the Wiesn being forbidden, Odermann made phone calls to German Air Traffic Control, authorities, and offices to seek permission. His efforts paid off, as he received a special permit from the police to fly over the Wiesn.
In a show of peace and tranquility, Odermann turned off the engine and relied on thermals for lift during his flight. After flying over the green, hilly countryside and enjoying the view of the Osterseen and Walchensee, Odermann would go on to perform two flight shows on the same day in Pfarrkirchen and Straubing.
Sascha Odermann's white two-seater motor glider, which cost 200,000 euros, was not used for the Wiesn heart flight. Instead, he chose to fly the Mu30, demonstrating his commitment to supporting the association and the repair of Schlacro.
As Odermann's plane soared through the skies, leaving a heart-shaped trail in its wake, it served as a reminder of the dedication and passion of the members of Akaflieg München e.V. and the importance of external support in helping to keep these historical aircraft in the air.
