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Description
Egg, Switzerland
This site is occasionally used for soaring and mini-cross-country flights. It is suitable for pilots with good launch skills, provided the wind is coming directly from the front. Launching between trees requires caution, especially if the wind is not from the north. Aborting a launch is generally safe as long as you don't overestimate your abilities. Be aware that incorrect wind direction, such as a southern wind, can cause significant collapses after takeoff.
Pfannenstiel is a site known to experienced pilots, located near Zurich. In winter, launches are made next to the Hochwacht restaurant. In summer, to avoid trampling the grass, use the official lower launch site.
Flight
From the upper launch site, strong Bise winds allow flights along the hill towards Zurich. Weaker Bise winds or launches from the lower site make gaining altitude more challenging. Light Bise winds at the upper site enable thermalling with birds, typically found to the east (right from the launch site). There are ample landing options on field paths and meadows if you sink out.
Difficulty
Launching from the lower site can be tight if the wind is not strong enough. The upper site allows for an easier descent down a hill step. Wind from the northeast or northwest can cause severe turbulence due to trees after leaving the lower site.
Airspace Considerations
The site is within Zurich CTR 2, Dübendorf CTR, and Zurich TMA:
- Temporary Class D to ground during southern approaches.
- Glider zone Bachtel West (1700m).
- Reduced cloud clearance in glider zones: 50m vertical, 100m horizontal. Visibility remains 5km or 8km. Permanent glider zones are active from April 1 to October 31 outside military flight times from sunrise to sunset. Check the glider map for geographical details.
Height restrictions must be strictly followed (southern approach): 1700m (see glider map).
Parking
Park at the landing site (Fischerstrasse, Egg), not on the narrow road to Pfannenstiel. The landing site is agricultural land; land at the edge or on the footpath crossing the area. Pack up at the edge, either by the footpath or Fischerstrasse.
Caution
If the wind is not directly from the north, severe collapses can occur after launching from the lower site.
For more information and weather updates, visit:
http://www.hochwacht-pfannenstiel.ch
http://www.hochwacht-pfannenstiel.ch/wetter-kamera.htm
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