Heinsheim – Birnhälde Schleppstrecke

Heinsheim – Birnhälde is a winch-launch flatland site in Baden-Württemberg, at just 227 m, prized locally as an excellent east-facing spot despite its modest height difference. It's a tow site rather than a hill launch, working on southeast or northwest wind along the strip. Access is deliberately narrow: the site is approved for paraglider tow operations only, and it's reserved for experienced pilots who fly regularly — the site holder is required to brief every pilot on the conditions before they fly. A protected biotope sits on the adjoining parcel of land and must not be disturbed by flight operations, and pilots need to keep 50 m of horizontal and vertical clearance from the district road that runs past the landing field, never overflying it on approach. Guest access has historically been limited here too, following friction between visiting pilots and local farmers, so it's worth checking current access with the club before planning a visit rather than just turning up.

Launch & conditions

Winch (tow) launch on flat ground; works on southeast or northwest wind. Approved for paraglider tow operations only, restricted to experienced, regularly flying pilots.

Getting there & local rules

Guest access has historically been limited following friction between visiting pilots and local farmers — confirm current access with the site holder before visiting rather than assuming it's open.

Local rules & hazards

A protected biotope on the adjoining parcel must not be disturbed by flight operations. Keep 50 m of horizontal and vertical clearance from the district road running past the landing field, and never overfly it on approach. The site is approved for paraglider tow operations only, restricted to experienced pilots who fly regularly; the site holder briefs every pilot on these conditions.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Heinsheim – Birnhälde Schleppstrecke, 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 Heinsheim – Birnhälde Schleppstrecke with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.