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Description
At an elevation of 530 meters, this launch site is occasionally used for soaring. The launch area is not particularly attractive and can sometimes be challenging due to the presence of a rubbish dump. It is generally recommended to launch from the standard takeoff or from a higher point. However, in strong wind conditions, this site might serve as an alternative, as the mountain behind provides some soaring and thermal reserves.
For landing, you can use the standard landing zone or any other meadows below, provided there are no crops.
Teba is primarily suitable for soaring and offers significantly more space along the ridge compared to places like Ronda la Vieja. Cross-country flying can be problematic here because the area is under the airspace of Málaga Airport. Pilots should not climb higher than approximately 1800 meters MSL in the approach path.
Weather conditions in the Algodonales region are typically influenced by the Azores High, except when a low-pressure system with its frontal boundaries passes through. The core of the high-pressure system usually lies to the west or northwest, resulting in prevailing winds from the north to southeast. However, the region's proximity to the coast means that sea breezes can reach the area as the land heats up during the day, often shifting the wind to the west or northwest in the afternoon. The complex topography causes the sea breeze to manifest differently in various locations. For example, in Ronda, the sea breeze tends to blow from the south.
The sea breeze generally affects the lower air layers up to about 1500 meters but can extend higher over or behind mountain ranges. This variable wind situation can be surprising for pilots unfamiliar with the area, as the wind drift can change significantly while circling. Experienced pilots can use the sea breeze to achieve excellent cross-country flights along convergence lines or plan triangular routes with tailwinds on each leg. However, accurately assessing the conditions requires considerable experience, and it is beneficial to consult local knowledge frequently.
Standard wind forecasts do not account for the regional influence of the sea breeze. To evaluate the flyability of a day, it is more important to monitor the upper-level winds. A GFS windgram for Algodonales from NOAA can be particularly helpful. The simple weather forecast for Algodonales from the Spanish weather service INM can be found here: [AEMET Algodonales Forecast](http://www.aemet.es/es/eltiempo/prediccion/localidades?l=11050&p=11).
Additionally, there is a webcam monitoring the Levante launch site: [Levante Webcam](http://www.ganterfly.de/c/webcam.htm).
Keep in mind that Algodonales is located much further west than Germany, despite being in the same time zone. Therefore, thermals typically start 1-2 hours later and reach their peak in the late afternoon. Flying too early increases the risk of sinking out.
For guides and accommodation, you can contact Gerhard (Gerardo) at [Ganterfly](http://www.ganterfly.de) or Lijar Sur at [Lijar Sur](http://www.lijarsur.com).
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