One of the main launch sites, offering soaring and enjoyable flights with good cross-country (XC) potential. The best routes are typically flown from March to May. Region: Sillian - Austria Site record: 110.5 km This long-established flying area offers numerous enticing routes. Situated in the 'long-distance' corridor between South Tyrol and Carinthia through the Puster and Drau valleys, Thurntaler serves as a stopover. The Hochpustertal is the 'highway' heading east or west towards Lienz or Toblach. To the south, the Lesachtal beckons. Flight Good thermals from all three launch sites starting from midday. Soaring over Petersberg is possible with valley winds from the east. The large landing area just before the town of Sillian is easily reachable from all three launch sites. From the Stalpen launch site, you can see the large landing meadow (with a windsock on top of a log cabin, right by the cable car parking lot—winter season until Easter). A prior inspection is still advisable. Be mindful of the valley wind, which can sometimes be quite strong. With valley winds from the east, a right-hand circuit is usually flown; with valley winds from the west, a left-hand circuit is common. The (rather small) landing fee is gladly paid at the Blue Sky flight school, as it helps maintain the flying area. Not suitable during north foehn or strong west winds. Very popular in spring. Afternoon thermals over Sillian can be quite good, and even with east valley winds, you can start from Stalpen and still get quite high. Soaring conditions: Possible over Petersberg with appropriate wind conditions. (Launch from Petersberg only with permission from the Blue Sky flight school—please inquire there!) Thurntalerbahn Tel. (04842) 6880/81 http://www.hochpustertal-ski.at