Felix Herold, Luc Stalman
Both usually fly in the Alps, a landscape full of relief, contrast and natural reference points. The Kalahari, by contrast, appears vast, open and deceptively uniform. That challenge is exactly what makes flying here so extraordinary for both of our juniors.
Jan Knischewski Andreas Weitz
Moments after landing, Felix jokes about whether ridge-soaring might be possible on the Kalahari dunes – a thought that instantly lifts everyone’s spirits and sets the tone for the days ahead.
Under the guidance of coach Jan Knischewski, they begin with the same structured preparation as the first team. The early flights take place in pure blue thermals, allowing them to gradually discover the unique characteristics of the Kalahari and Namibia. While Felix brings considerable experience, Andreas – with just over 350 flight hours – is collecting valuable milestones in one of the most demanding soaring environments in the world.
Day by day the weather develops, the energy lines strengthen and the distances grow. Today, flights of more than 1300 km were achieved, including a declared triangle of 1000km for Felix.
Felix Herold
An impressive start to this second camp phase and a testament to the enormous potential Bitterwasser offers.
Andreas Weitz
For our junior pilots, this period is not only about learning and performing; it is a chance to experience a soaring paradise that inspires and shapes them.
Bitterwasser remains a place that connects and motivates generations!
A stay at the Bitterwasser Lodge is usually beyond the financial means of young pilots. At the same time, the next generation is the key to the future of our wonderful sport—and of the lodge as well. That is why supporting young pilots is a core part of the Bitterwasser Flying Center’s mission.
Early October is the ideal time to prepare the runways for flight operations. You can land at the Bitterwasser Flying Lodge in every which direction—depending on how you look at it, on 8 runways (plus one emergency runway), each in two directions. Jeremias carefully levels the landing area over the course of several weeks.