Retired air traffic controller inspires with model airplane workshop

In Eskişehir, 49-year-old Selim Nohutçu, who retired from his position as an air traffic controller two years ago, is working to pass on his lifelong passion for aviation through a model airplane workshop he established. Nohutçu, whose passion for radio-controlled model airplanes began in childhood, served as a non-commissioned officer in the Turkish Air Force for 28 years. After participating in various courses and competitions in the field of radio-controlled model airplanes, he retired from his role as an air traffic controller at the 1st Main Jet Base Command in Eskişehir in 2022. Immediately upon retirement, Nohutcu established the Eskişehir Model Airplane Workshop, where he participates in competitions with his model airplanes. He collaborates with various institutions and schools, providing training and sharing his passion for aviation with participants. Nohutçu, who has a collection of models of aircraft from the Turkish Air Force and World War II, also creates models of domestic aircraft such as the National Combat Aircraft KAAN and Bayraktar TB2. He expressed his joy at setting up a workshop in Eskişehir, which he considers the cradle of aviation in Türkiye, and aims to share his passion for aviation with children and youth. Nohutçu welcomes everyone to his workshop, stating that people of all ages can build their model airplanes there. He crafts his models from a lightweight wood called balsa and assembles them using fiberglass, carbon, and various adhesives. Nohutçu also uses a 3D printer to create various model airplanes, including designs like the National Combat Aircraft KAAN and Bayraktar TB2. He noted that there is significant interest in the models of domestic aircraft, both from collectors and those looking for gifts. Nohutçu mentioned that he eagerly awaits the release of plastic kits for the Aksungur UAV and Kızılelma, planning to add them to his collection. He finds excitement in creating model airplanes and displaying them in his collection.