3 cross-country flight suggestions of 50km each for the ambitious newcomer
For the beginning of the cross-country flight season, we have put together three suggestions for flights in the range of 50 kilometers.
Accurate and thorough preparation is a prerequisite for recognizing dangers and avoiding airspace violations. Here are the most important links for your flight preparation:
DESCRIPTION The Weissenstein is one of the few take-off points in the Jura that can be reached by public transport or by train. It is therefore well attended and a real classic. The flight route leads along the southern foot of the Jura in a westerly direction to the first turning point at Grenchenberg. From there it goes east to the second turning point at the Balsthaler Klus and back to the Weissenstein. 50km. The flight can be extended almost as desired on both sides.
BEST TIME Spring
DIRECTIONS By car or public transport to Oberdorf, from there take the gondola to the Weissenstein.
IMPORTANT Observe TMA Basel. When the HX TMA is active, you may only turn from Weissenstein towards the east up to 1750m AMSL.
DESCRIPTION The Crap Sogn Gion is located at 2200m in the "White Arena". The flight goes west through the Surselva 25km to Piz Avat, where you turn around. This makes a 50km return flight. Alternatively, you can turn around in Disentis or even before Andermatt. That would be 70 or 100km back. The terrain is fairly clear but it is clearly a high alpine environment. The thermals and valley winds are correspondingly strong. The scenery at Bifertenstock and Tödi is unbeatable.
BEST TIME Spring, Summer
DIRECTIONS By car or public transport to Laax, from there take the gondola to the Crap.
TO KNOW Alternatively, you can start from Naraus (chairlift from Flims) or tackle the Surselva from Disentis.
Fanas
DESCRIPTION The Prättigau is now known far and wide for its cross-country flight potential. In spring, large FAI triangles are flown here. If you stay in the Prättigau, the terrain is clear. The flight takes you up the Prättigau, past the Madrisa and Klosters ski areas to the Chessler. The thermals break off reliably at the snow line, making it quite easy for even less experienced pilots to find an updraft.
But be careful, the spring thermals are very strong and the air masses here can become lively. The valley wind at the landing site is usually quite brisk.
BEST TIME April, May
DIRECTIONS By car or public transport to Fanas, from there by cable car up the mountain.
TO KNOW The cable car is regularly fully booked in spring. Register in advance or use the Stelserberg starting point (post bus from Schiers train station)
