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Description
Dunstable Downs is a frequently used soaring site in the UK, known for its potential for cross-country (XC) flights. However, it is a members-only site managed by the Dunstable Hang-Gliding and Paragliding Club (DHPC), and guests are generally not welcome. Strict adherence to the club's rules is mandatory.
The site is located within the Luton CTR/CTA – Class D controlled airspace, near London Luton Airport. Flying here without meeting all legal requirements is an offence that could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or a fine of up to £2,000.
The distance record for Dunstable is 157.6 km, set on April 28, 2016, by Karoly Megyesi.
Dunstable Downs is a popular spot for various activities, including paragliding, hang-gliding, and other recreational activities. The area is also designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and members are expected to respect this status and cooperate with wardens.
Only DHPC members are allowed to fly here, and they must comply with a Letter of Agreement (LoA) with the London Gliding Club (LGC) and the National Air Traffic Service (NATS). All pilots must be DHPC and BHPA members, have a minimum of a Club Pilot (CP) rating, and have received a mandatory Airspace Briefing. Pilots must be signed off by a DHPC Club Coach and have a lifetime Airspace helmet sticker.
The airspace briefing includes diagrams of all restrictions and rules. A copy of the briefing and test can be found on the club website. The DHPC also operates a weather station at the Chiltern Gateway Centre, accessible via the club website.
The London Gliding Club also uses the airspace at Dunstable Downs, so pilots must be competent in flying in a mixed-discipline environment. Notes on thermalling with other aircraft types are available.
Wind direction for the site ranges from Southwest to Northwest (220˚-320˚), with the best conditions in a West-Northwest direction (270˚-300˚). The top-to-bottom height is 230 ft (70 m) from the Middle Car Park Launch, with the Trig-point approximately 60 ft (18 m) higher. The site is situated about 1 mile west of Dunstable, just off the B489 Tring Road. The postcode for Sat-Nav is LU6 2GY.
For more information, visit the DHPC site guide: [Dunstable Downs Site Guide](http://dunstablehpc.co.uk/site-guides/dunstable-downs-site-guide/).
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