Flying model planes in Grossarl

Where normally you would see golden eagles and paragliders circling overhead, you might also catch sight of imposing remote-control planes patrolling the skies. With wingspans of as much as 7 meters, these impressive models barely differ from their full-size prototypes in terms of form and functionality.

Airfields for R/C planes

Natur-Platzl N 47.227161 / E 13.161179

The first and probably most beautiful airfield for R/C planes is the so-called “Natur Platzl “, located at an elevation of 1900 m, just above the mountain station of the Panorama Lift. Here, it is possible to fly in a S / SE to S / SW direction. Even with little wind and lots of sun, flying is always a success, as it is when there are circulating air currents. Models with wingspans up to 7 meters are recommended.

You can reach the “Natur Platzl” using the Grossarltal Panorama Lift: The gondolas are able to transport packaged items as much as 2 meters in length. By arrangement with the Grossarl Lift Company, larger models can also be transported using a freight lift. Once at the mountain station, you will need to walk gently uphill in the direction of the Kreuzkogel for about 15 minutes. After covering around 400 m, you will find the Natur-Platzl to your left. The ca. 30 m-wide hillside there is an ideal take-off point, while your 20 m x 40 m landing zone is right next-door on the ski piste. The surface of this piste is even and free of stones, and the grass is always kept short in summer.

Bichlalm N 47.211416 / E 13.224851

At the Bichlalm (elev. 1,731 m), it is possible to fly S / SW to W. Models with a maximum wingspan of around 4.5 m are recommended.

You can reach the Bichlalm either on foot (ca. 1 ½ h) or by taxi. Before flying, please ask the hut staff for their permit. There you have to pay a little charge. You will take off from a big field just south of the hut. Only the mown, open areas can be used. The field is free of stones or trees, making it outstandingly suited for take-offs and landings.

Hoamalm N 47.274847 / E 13.224588

At the Hoamalm (elev. 1,060 m), it is possible to fly NW / N to NE. Models with a wingspan up to 4.5 m are recommended.

The airfield at the Hoamalm can be reached by car. You will drive past the sign for the Hoamalm and, after 500 m, turn right onto the supply lane leading to the Saukaralm. From the gate, continue right in a westerly direction and, in about 5 minutes, you will reach the airfield. Next to the meadows at the bottom of the hillside, you will see a small, new wooden hut. This is the Hoamalm, whose owners operate the airfield for visitors. Registration at the Hoamalm. Here you have to buy a consuption-voucher of € 5.00, which you can use during or after the flight in the Hoamalm.

Flying Information

Please stay well away from the hiking paths. You may only fly on mown areas, so please restrict yourself to those. Be aware of grazing animals! Land and cattle owners accept no liability for potential damage caused by grazing cattle. Please obey all instructions given to you by the land owners. Landing fields can only be used by pilots with valid liability insurance. Always carry your insurance card with you and present it for inspection as needed. The pilot is solely responsible for all damages resulting from operation of model planes.

RC Rally

Jürgen Witt is a passionate R/C pilot in his own right and in 2022 the Tourismusverband Grossarltal will once again be organizing a rally for R/C pilots. Jürgen Witt is responsible for taking care of the technical and aviation aspects of this event for more than 10 years now.

Most of the flying during this rally will take place next to the mountain station of the Grossarltal Panorama Lift. Aviators with their equipment, along with visitors, enjoy a gondola ride lasting about 15 minutes up to a panoramic plateau at around 1900 m above sea level (fare for the round-trip lift ride is € 22.50 - with Guest Card Grossarltal € 19.50 - prices for 2022 will follow).

You can take off from this plateau – depending on wind and weather conditions – in all directions. Simply find the take-off site that best meets the needs of your model. Don’t be surprised if you end up sharing the thermals with alpine choughs, or perhaps birds of prey such as buzzards and even young golden eagle.

Serving as base camp for R/C pilots is Hotel Gratz. Though of course, you can also book accommodations wherever you please.

Interested spectators are always welcome to attend the event, of course, with no registration required.