Netphen

Netphen is a northwest-facing launch in the Siegerland at around 360 m, and guests need a briefing plus prior coordination on timing and parking with the site operator before flying here. A hedge at the southwest edge of the site may hold a red-backed shrike nesting spot, so pilots keep at least 50 m clear of it, marked out for the day whenever flying is happening. Training flights only go ahead when conditions are safe enough for students specifically, and pilots keep well clear of a nearby power line, stopping operations entirely if wind risks drifting anyone toward it. Vehicles stick to paved paths for driving and parking, and any markings needed for the launch or landing are kept as discreet as possible — put up right before flying starts and removed completely once it's done. Flying is only allowed between two hours after sunrise and one hour before sunset, winching isn't used at this site, and noise is kept to a minimum so the area stays usable for other visitors too.

Launch & conditions

Keep at least 50 m clear of the hedge at the southwest edge of the site — a possible bird-nesting spot — marked out whenever flying is under way. Stay well clear of the nearby power line, and stop flying if wind risks drifting toward it.

Getting there & local rules

Guests need a briefing and prior coordination on timing and parking with the site operator. Vehicles use paved paths only.

Local rules & hazards

Flying is only allowed between two hours after sunrise and one hour before sunset, winching isn't used here, and training flights only go ahead when conditions are safe for students. Noise is kept to a minimum, and the surrounding landscape stays open for other recreational users.

Check conditions before you fly

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