Charlottenpolder Ost – West

Charlottenpolder Ost–West is the east–west tow lane at this winch site in the Ostfriesland polder, flying strictly on west winds at essentially sea level — the companion route to the nearby Charlottenpolder NW–SO strip. Wind turbines stand close to the site, and pilots keep a healthy distance from them at all times, since the lee side of the turbines throws off genuine turbulence. This route only runs when there's no risk of the tow line or the towed pilot drifting toward the turbines under wind pressure, and a possible line break always has to be planned for. Release height is capped at 760 m above ground, and any release above 450 m requires reliable radio contact between the towed pilot and the winch operator or launch marshal. The tow strip itself is only usable when the vegetation along it stays low, and every pilot is briefed on the site's particular conditions before flying for the first time.

Launch & conditions

The east–west tow route, flown only on west winds when there's no risk of drift toward the nearby wind turbines. Release height is capped at 760 m AGL; above 450 m, reliable radio contact is required between the towed pilot and winch operator.

Local rules & hazards

Wind turbines stand close to the site — keep a healthy distance at all times, since their lee side produces real turbulence. A possible tow-line break always has to be planned for, and towing doesn't start if there's any risk of drift toward the turbines.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Charlottenpolder Ost – West, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Charlottenpolder Ost – West with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.