Conditions Optimales
Description
The Jungfraujoch in the Interlaken region of Switzerland offers a challenging yet rewarding paragliding experience. This high-alpine launch site, situated at an elevation of 3,460 meters, is accessible via the Jungfraubahn from Grindelwald or Lauterbrunnen. After arriving at the Jungfraujoch, a 10-minute walk will take you to the glacier plateau, where the takeoff occurs. The terrain is glacial, and the plateau ends with a steep drop of 700 meters. Due to the high altitude and the potential for sudden wind changes, this site requires significant experience and routine.
The launch site is generally suitable for flights in weak northwest conditions, with typical flying times between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Pilots must have substantial experience and confidence in mountain or peak launches. For landing in Lauterbrunnen or Stechelberg, it is mandatory to notify the Heliport at Air Glacier Lauterbrunnen (Phone: 0338560560).
The weather at this altitude can be unpredictable, with winds often exceeding 40 km/h even when it is calm in the valley. Gusts can reach up to 70 km/h. However, when conditions are favorable, the flight is an absolute delight, especially for alpine pilots.
There are multiple takeoff points within 150 meters of the main site. One is about 10 minutes from the Jungfraujoch viewing platform and is considered moderately difficult. Another, located northeast of the Sphinx, is significantly more exposed and challenging.
Flight routes include:
- Flying over the Guggihütte and past the north face of the Eiger. Be cautious not to startle wildlife or mountaineers.
- Utilizing thermals at Wengen-Jungfrau for soaring.
- A 19 km flight with a 3,000-meter descent to Interlaken, landing at Höhenmatte near Hooters.
- Landing options in Wilderswil and Zweilütschinen.
- Top landings on Männlichen and Lauberhorn.
The northwest launch site is generally considered easy topographically, but external conditions often limit successful launches to about once a month. The start is from a relatively flat area, and wind conditions can create phenomena similar to top landings on flat sites. The glacier crevasses are real and should be taken seriously.
Wind speeds at the launch site are typically about 10 km/h lower than at the viewing platform. Successful launches are possible only with west to north winds. Winds from the east can place the launch site in the lee, with gusts sweeping across the field from the south.
Considerations for the high altitude include physical strain, longer takeoff runs, and higher takeoff speeds. Between Wilderswil and Interlaken, there are visible high-voltage power lines and a highway. West of Männlichen, there are additional steel cables besides the cable car lines, which can be problematic only in extreme scratching conditions.
For weather information relevant to the entire Western Alps, visit: [Meteomedia Weather Station](http://wetterstationen.meteomedia.de/messnetz/forecast/067300.html).
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