Kotal kazeroun

Kotal Kazeroun launches from 2,538 m in Iran, on ground pilots have compared to inland Spain — dry, dusty and stony rather than grassy. From the air, a wide valley opens up directly ahead of the takeoff, offering some breathing room once you've worked through the wind channels of the canyon right in front of launch. Landing is near a nearby village; visiting pilots have found workable spots close to the houses that stay clear of power lines. This is a site best flown with a local pilot rather than solo — foreign visitors typically get access to Iranian sites through a guide, and organised groups from abroad have flown here in April and November. Southeast, south and southwest winds work the site for thermal, soaring, cross-country and flatland-style flying.

Getting there & local rules

Fly here with a local pilot rather than on your own — foreign visitors typically need a guide to fly Iranian sites safely and legally.

Check conditions before you fly

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