Meerfelder Maar Startplatz Ost

Meerfelder Maar Ost is one of Germany's more unusual sites: you launch downward into a genuine volcanic crater, the Maar, from launch meadows facing east along the crater rim. The terrain is fairly flat at launch, so good launch technique matters more here than at a steep hill. Cross-country flights are possible from this site. The reed beds and open water inside the crater are a nature reserve and must never be overflown — Zone 1 of the Meerfelder Maar reserve and the Maar's water itself are both strictly off-limits from the air, under rules set by the Bernkastel-Wittlich nature conservation authority, and every pilot flying here needs to know exactly where that line runs before launching. Landings are at the Meerfelder Maar landing field near the Hotel Maarblick, where an information board also covers the site rules.

Launch & conditions

Fairly flat launch terrain on the crater rim — good launch technique matters here. Cross-country flights are possible from this site.

Local rules & hazards

The reed beds and open water inside the crater are a protected nature reserve and must never be overflown — Zone 1 of the Meerfelder Maar reserve and the Maar's water itself are strictly off-limits from the air, under rules set by the Bernkastel-Wittlich nature conservation authority. Every pilot flying here needs to know exactly where that boundary runs before launching.

Check conditions before you fly

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