Wilnsdorf – West

Wilnsdorf – West is a winch-launch flatland site in North Rhine-Westphalia at 397 m, flown on west wind. The rules here revolve almost entirely around the neighbouring Wildebachtal nature reserve: as a general rule, flying has to stay 300 m clear of it both horizontally and vertically. Two of the launch areas actually sit closer than that to the reserve boundary, but they're allowed on the condition that launch direction and wind mean the 300 m buffer is maintained immediately after takeoff and for the whole flight — and events can't be held on those particular areas at all. Flying is time-boxed too, permitted only between two hours after sunrise and one hour before sunset. Noise gets real attention: the tow winch can only run for as long as an actual launch takes, not longer, and pilots are asked to be mindful of other people out enjoying the countryside nearby. Getting to launch or landing means sticking to existing paths rather than cutting across open ground.

Launch & conditions

Works on west wind. Two launch areas sit within 300 m of the neighbouring Wildebachtal nature reserve and may only be used when launch direction and wind keep the required distance throughout the flight. Flying is permitted only between two hours after sunrise and one hour before sunset.

Local rules & hazards

A 300 m horizontal and vertical distance from the Wildebachtal nature reserve applies as a general rule. No events on the launch areas closest to the reserve. Keep the tow winch running only as long as an actual launch takes, be mindful of other visitors nearby, and reach launch and landing areas only via existing paths.

Check conditions before you fly

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