Join the Club des Gratte-Ciel and support free flight in the Mont-Blanc region!

Chamonix, an iconic location for air sports, offers a unique experience for free flight enthusiasts.

Take-off Sites

Chamonix, with its breathtaking landscapes and iconic mountains, is a favorite location for paragliding enthusiasts. The valley offers a variety of take-off sites, some approved by the Fédération Française de Vol Libre (FFVL) and maintained by the dedicated volunteers of the Club des Gratte-Ciel. Other sites are specific para-alpinism zones (hike-and-fly, or climb-and-fly) for the most adventurous.

Check local information for available flight locations in Chamonix. Local guides, online forums and flying schools can provide recommendations on the best sites based on weather conditions and your skill level. You can find a list of local schools here.

[+]

FFVL Agreement Landings

These landing zones are officially recognized and regularly maintained to offer the best possible conditions to paragliders:

Bois du Bouchet: Located near the center of Chamonix, this site is one of the most used by paragliders. Easily accessible, it offers a large open space, ideal for soft landings. The site is clearly visible and easy to access, making it a popular choice among pilots of all skill levels.
The Savoy - Confirmed pilot. Landlocked and lined with buildings. The terrain is quite large but you should approach it while remaining extremely vigilant. It should be avoided as soon as the valley breeze sets in because it is downwind. Presence of several dangerous obstacles: ski lifts, conveyor belts, bases and snow cannon supports.

Safety and Good Landing Practices

Whether you land on an approved site or not, it is crucial to respect certain safety rules:

Assessment of Conditions: Always assess weather conditions before descending. Winds can change quickly in the mountains, affecting landing safety.

Terrain Reconnaissance: If you are unfamiliar with the landing site, do a visual reconnaissance before launching. Knowing potential obstacles and terrain characteristics is essential.

Respect for Defined Areas: Respect defined landing zones to avoid conflicts with other activities or mountain users. Use official areas to keep everyone safe.

Communication: Always let someone know your flight plan and intended landing area. In the event of an emergency, this can greatly facilitate rescue operations.

Flying to Chamonix offers unforgettable experiences, and landing safely is an essential part of this adventure. By following these tips and respecting the landing sites, you help to maintain the safety and conviviality of this exceptional place for all paragliding enthusiasts.

Landing Zones

Chamonix, famous for its majestic landscapes and exceptional flying conditions, also offers a variety of landing sites for paragliders. Many of these areas, like the take-off sites, are approved by the French Free Flight Federation (FFVL) and maintained by volunteers from the Club des Gratte-Ciel. The primary sites are designed to ensure safe and practical landings.

Here is a list of the main landing sites in the Chamonix valley.

[+]

FFVL Approved Landings

These landing zones are officially recognized and regularly maintained to offer the best possible conditions to paragliders:

Bois du Bouchet: Located near the center of Chamonix, this site is one of the most used by paragliders. Easily accessible, it offers a large open space, ideal for soft landings. The site is clearly visible north of the running track and spoorts center and is easy to access. On any flyable day you will see pilots landing here since it a popular choice among pilots of all skill levels.
The Savoy - Experienced pilots, or confirmed pilots only. The site is landlocked and surrounded by buildings. The terrain is quite large but you should approach it while remaining extremely vigilant. It should be avoided as soon as the Souterly valley breeze sets in because you would be forced to land downwind to avoid cables and obstacles. There are several dangerous obstacles present: ski lifts, conveyor belts, bases and snow cannon supports.

Safety and Good Landing Practices

Whether you land on an approved site or not, it is crucial to respect certain safety rules:

Assessment of Conditions: Always assess weather conditions before you approach the landing. Winds can change quickly in the mountains, affecting landing safety.
Terrain Reconnaissance: If you are unfamiliar with the landing site, do a visual reconnaissance before launching. Knowing potential obstacles and terrain characteristics is essential.
Respect for Defined Areas: Respect defined landing zones to avoid conflicts with other activities or mountain users. Use official areas to keep everyone safe. There is continual helicpter lfight, closed areas during certain times of year and occasionally parachuting sorties using the landing zones.
Communication: Always let someone know your flight plan and intended landing area. In the event of an emergency, this can greatly facilitate rescue operations.

Weather situation

The region often enjoys optimal weather conditions for hang-gliding, especially during shoulder seasons like spring and fall. Regular thermals and favorable winds offer good flying opportunities for new pilots and experienced cross-country flyers.

Choice of flight site

Check local information on available flight locations in Chamonix. Local guides, online forums and schools can provide recommendations on the best sites based on weather conditions and your skill level.

Infrastructure and services

Chamonix has a well-developed infrastructure for free flight activities, including renowned paragliding schools, well-maintained take-off sites, easy landings and a vibrant community of friendly pilots.

Variety of sites

The region offers a variety of flying sites suitable for beginners and experienced pilots alike. Takeoffs like Plan de l'Aiguille or Plan Joue combined with safe landings make Chamonix an ideal place to progress and explore new challenges in the air.

Vibrant community

Chamonix attracts riders from all over the world, creating a vibrant and diverse community. This allows pilots to share experiences, benefit from advice and discover new perspectives on free flight. Be sure to say "Bonjour" to your fellow aviators!

Compliance with local rules

Be sure to follow local regulations and recommendations regarding flight sites, weather conditions and safety. Following the advice of local professionals is crucial to enjoying a safe and enjoyable flying experience, and helping to keep free flight popular and supported by the town and region.

Page updated

Report abuse