Schleppgelände Berka

Schleppgelände Berka is a winch-tow flatland site in Thuringia, launching from 222 m on wind from the east or west. This is a strictly permitted tow ground rather than an open field: towing only happens over low vegetation, and winch-tow training or step-towing needs completely harvested fields with at least 100 m clear on both sides of the tow line. Only specific, named parcels may be overflown with the tow rope attached, and the landowners' explicit consent covers exactly those boundaries — flying beyond them under tow isn't permitted. Crossing paths get secured against entry before towing starts, so no one strays under a live tow line, and step-tow operations run with a continuous radio link between pilot and winch operator plus a spotter watching that the tow line and airspace stay clear of people, crowds and roads. Every pilot carries an altimeter to track release height, and the minimum re-entry turn altitude is 150 m above the ground.

Launch & conditions

Winch-tow training and step-towing need completely harvested fields with at least 100 m clear either side of the tow line, a continuous radio link between pilot and winch operator, and an altimeter on board to track release height.

Local rules & hazards

Only the specifically permitted parcels may be overflown with the tow rope attached, with the landowners' consent covering exactly those boundaries and no further. No persons, crowds or roads may be overflown under tow, the minimum height for the re-entry turn is 150 m above the ground, and a pilot releases immediately if another aircraft approaches.

Check conditions before you fly

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