Schrattenbach

Schrattenbach is an interesting alternative to the nearby Alps, out toward the Allgäu Gate in Germany, at about 800 m. Despite the modest height difference, it offers good soaring flights in strong wind — this is a forest-gap launch that demands real flying experience, and every landing here is a top-landing back at the launch. Training flights aren't permitted at all: pilots need at least an A-licence, and both launching and any passenger (tandem) flying require mastering the reverse-launch technique. Launches only happen in wind from westerly directions. A guest fee of €10 applies, and every guest pilot needs a briefing from the club on the site's specific hazards before flying. When model-aircraft flying is happening at the same time, operations have to be coordinated between the two groups, and pilots need to keep a solid safety distance from the road below. Everyone flying here also needs to be aware of the nearby controlled airspace.

Launch & conditions

Demanding forest-gap launch at about 800 m for wind from southwest through west to northwest; every landing is a top-landing back at the launch. Requires at least an A-licence and the reverse-launch technique — no training flights here.

Getting there & local rules

A €10 guest fee applies, and every guest pilot needs a briefing from the club on the site's specific hazards before their first flight.

Local rules & hazards

Passenger (tandem) flights need a special briefing from the site holder and the reverse-launch technique. Coordinate with model-aircraft operations if they're flying at the same time, and keep a solid safety distance from the road below. Be aware of the nearby controlled airspace.

Check conditions before you fly

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