Uelhof Südwest

Uelhof Südwest is the south-westerly launch of the same German winch-tow flatland site as Uelhof Nordost, flown from around 390 m on a south-westerly wind. The same seasonal wildlife protection applies: between 1 April and 30 June, flying can't start before 10:00. This is the launch where paraglider winch-tow training actually happens — student pilots need to have finished at least basic-level training and be able to fly controlled turns first, since the site isn't approved for hang-glider winch training at all. Towing rules are strict: the path that crosses the tow line must be closed off with a course marshal on watch, and towing stops immediately if people or vehicles get close. In wind from the north, watch for a lee effect off the trees, and keep a safe distance from the neighbouring farm buildings. The Cologne Class C airspace lies just to the west, so know its boundary before flying. Step-towing is not permitted here either.

Launch & conditions

This is the south-westerly launch of the Uelhof winch site, and the one where paraglider winch-tow training actually takes place.

Local rules & hazards

Flight operations are restricted between 1 April and 30 June: nothing before 10:00, to protect local wildlife. This is where paraglider winch-tow training happens on this site — students need at least basic-level training and controlled-turn ability first. The tow-line crossing path must be closed and watched by a course marshal, with towing halted immediately if people or vehicles approach; step-towing isn't permitted. Watch for a lee effect off the trees in northerly wind, and keep clear of the neighbouring farm buildings; the Cologne Class C airspace sits just to the west.

Check conditions before you fly

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