Unforgettable memories over the Alps with myLibra RS.

Cross-Country Flight from Jura to the Bernese Oberland

In recent years, I’ve attempted several times to cross from the hills of Jura in northern Switzerland to the high mountains of the Bernese Oberland. Until now, I’ve always fallen short somewhere midway or just before reaching the higher mountains. But in August, despite challenging blue thermals, I successfully completed the crossing. I flew with another pilot, which has the advantage of better chances to find thermals and quickly identify the strongest updraft. There were moments when we were very low. At such times, it’s crucial to be highly alert. Do you see birds, leaves, lint, or flags on the ground? This way, we arrived over a village at more than 200 meters above ground. I caught a light updraft and immediately turned, even if it was just a zero push. This gives you time to observe well. I noticed a flag fluttering on one side of the village and another flag blowing in the opposite direction on the other side. There had to be thermals in between. We drifted slowly in that direction and indeed began to ascend strongly. Within 10 minutes, we were 1000 meters higher again. Such special moments are unforgettable.

Check out the flight: [https://www.xcontest.org/2023/holland/flights/details:annejan/23.08.2023/09:37]

Flying Over the Italian Mountain Lakes

Last year, during the X-Swiss project, we discovered a great Hike & Fly launch site in Ticino: Alp Caviano. This site is on the Italian border and marks the start of the Alps. In spring, you can already make beautiful flights here. There’s still a lot of snow in the mountains, but the south has already melted. In April, after a nice hike, I took a flight over the Italian mountain lakes. Fantastic views, very unique. On clear days, you can even see as far as Milan. It’s always important in Ticino and Italy to prepare your flight well, as some valleys have little or no landing spots. After flying over the lakes, I landed in Cesana Brianza and visited Giorgio, where many Swing gliders are tested.

Check out the flight: [https://www.xcontest.org/2023/holland/flights/details:annejan/26.04.2023/08:53]

X-Swiss Project West to East

During the X-Swiss 2023 project, we made a challenging Hike & Fly journey from west to east across Switzerland with 11 pilots from the X-Alps Academy. The journey started in Montreux, aiming for Konstanz, and included many unique but also exciting moments along the way. The first day started with a challenging launch in strong winds. In the evening, we made unexpected flights at sunset and landed directly at the hut.
On the second day, from Jaun to Eriz, we learned the importance of teamwork and effective communication, as well as improving flight strategies based on experiences. The third day was about carefully observing the weather due to predicted thunderstorms. Most pilots managed to progress dozens of kilometers near Engelberg. On the fourth day, flexibility and adaptability were key due to a rain front that arrived later than predicted. In pouring rain, we hiked to the Klausen Pass, where we could warm up again.

On the last day, from Klausen Pass to St. Gallen, the challenges were execution and planning of the day. We hadn’t anticipated a tailwind on Klausen Pass, which led to delays. Fortunately, we were in time at the right launch site for a very cool final flight through the Glarus region northward over Walensee towards St. Gallen. Although we didn’t reach Konstanz as a group, the experience was again very special. Highs and lows, challenges, and new friendships. The adventure emphasized the importance of teamwork, safety, adaptability, and enjoying nature from the air.

Flat Triangle Flight of 243 km.

On May 22nd, I enjoyed beautiful flying weather in Switzerland, after weeks of bad weather. I started from Riederalp in Valais around 9:30 AM. The thermals were strong enough right away, so I quickly gained 500 meters above the launch site. In Goms, the thermals worked as usual. Most pilots fly up to Grimsel Pass, but the conditions were so good that I continued to Furka and Andermatt. On my way to my first turnpoint in Andermatt and then back to Riederalp, I utilized the east wind.
On the way back after my second turnpoint, some clouds developed into rain and snow showers, so I detoured to the south side of the valley and later returned to the north side. Despite the challenges, I maintained my altitude and completed my triangle. Around 7 PM, I reached Riederfurka, where I enjoyed the last thermals and sunset. What a great day and a beautiful memory!

Check out the flight: [https://www.xcontest.org/2023/holland/flights/details:annejan/22.05.2023/07:26]