Model aviation
the most beautiful airfields
Where normally only golden eagles and paragliders soar, it is here that imposing model gliders conquer the airspace of the Hohe Tauern. The impressive models, with wingspans of up to 7 meters, are externally almost indistinguishable in form and functionality from their larger counterparts.
The following airfields for model aviation are available in the Valley of Mountain Huts:
- Natur Platzl
- Bichlalm
- Hoamalm
- Unterwandalm
- Holzlehen
N 47.227161 / E 13.161179
The first and probably most beautiful aviation site is the Natur Platzl (elev. 1,900 m) just above the top station of the Panoramabahn. Flying is possible here with S / SE to S / SW wind. Even with little wind and lots of sun, it always seems to work, as it does with eddying currents. Models with a wingspan of up to 7 m are recommended.
You can reach the Natur-Platzl on the Grossarltal Panoramabahn. The gondolas are able to transport package lengths of up to 2 meters. By arrangement with the Grossarl lifts, larger models can also be transported for a fee using the freight lift.
From the top station, walk about 15 minutes slightly uphill towards the Kreuzkogel. After about 400 m, you will reach the Natur Platzl on the left-hand side. The approximately 30 m mountain edge is ideal for takeoffs. Landing takes place right next to it on the approximately 20 m wide and 40 m long landing field on the ski slope. There are no undulations or stones to contend with, and it is always mown short in summer.
N 47.211416 / E 13.224851
On the Bichlalm (1,731 m), flying is possible with S / SW to W wind. Models with a wingspan of up to 4.5 m are recommended.
You can reach the Bichlalm either on foot (about 1 ½ hours) or by taxi. Please ask the hill farmers for permission before flying, as there is a fee to pay. Flying is done on the large meadow immediately south of the alpine pasture. Please adhere to the mown areas. The meadow is free of stones and trees, and is excellent for takeoffs and landings.
N 47.274847 / E 13.224588
At the Hoamalm (1,060 m), flying is possible with a NW / N to NE wind. Here, models with a wingspan of up to 4.5 m are recommended.
The aviation field at the Hoamalm is accessible by car. Drive past the sign for the Hoamalm and, after about 500 m, turn right onto the forest road leading to the Saukaralm. From the barrier, walk right in a westerly direction and, after about 5 minutes, you will reach the field where you can fly your aircraft.
N 47.281357 / E 13.248469
At the Unterwandalm (1,060 m), flying is possible with a S / SW wind. Models with a wingspan of up to 4.5 m are recommended.
The area is on the eastern side of the valley. From the Sonneggbrücke parking area, the ascent takes 45 minutes or 1.5 hours, depending on the route. You can also take the Alm Taxi. The takeoff site is not far from the memorial cross near the mountain hut, and the landing field is right next to it.
N 47.275248 / E 13.193944
The Holzlehenbauer is on the western side of Grossarltal. Flying here is possible with a S / SE to E wind. Models with a wingspan of up to 4.5 m are recommended.
You can park a little above the airfield at the Himmelsknoten parking area. The Holzlehen farm is the last farm on the way to the parking area. Flying is done below the barn, and landing is directly below that. Registration with the farmer is required (Rupert Hettegger: +43 (0) 6414 / 8237).
Flight Information
Please maintain a safe distance from hiking trails. You are only allowed to fly from the mown areas, so please limit yourself to these. Be cautious around grazing livestock! No liability on the part of landowners and livestock holders for any damages caused by grazing livestock. Follow the instructions of the landowners. The landing fields may only be used by pilots with valid liability insurance. The insurance card must always be carried and shown immediately during inspections. The pilot is liable for any damages related to operation of their model aircraft.
