Schleppgelände an der Halde Norddeutschland (O – W)

This is a winch-tow site below the Halde Norddeutschland spoil heap, at roughly 38 m, with a 900 m tow line running east-west — flat, open terrain that makes it a good entry point into thermal flying, and launches are also possible facing south. Because the tow line runs alongside a field path, tow operations stop the moment vehicles or people approach the launch or path, to avoid anyone being hit by the line drifting in crosswind. A launch marshal is designated for every flying day to enforce the site's conditions. Step-towing, a two-stage tow technique, is only permitted on a separate north-south line, and pilots must not fly over the adjacent field path or drainage ditch with the tow line still attached, in line with the DHV's step-tow requirements. All pilots need to be briefed on the site's permit conditions before flying, and the whole operation runs under landscape-protection exemptions granted by the local district.

Launch & conditions

Winch-tow launch at about 38 m; main tow line runs 900 m east–west over flat ground, with launches also possible facing south.

Getting there & local rules

The tow line runs alongside a field path — towing stops immediately if vehicles or people approach the launch area or path.

Local rules & hazards

A good entry point into thermal flying thanks to the flat, open terrain. A launch marshal runs every flying day. Step-towing is only allowed on a separate north–south line, and the tow line must not be flown over the adjacent field path or ditch while still attached, per DHV step-tow rules. All pilots need a site briefing before flying.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Schleppgelände an der Halde Norddeutschland (O – W), 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 Schleppgelände an der Halde Norddeutschland (O – W) with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.