Five Arcus were the last to find their place in the containers. The total of seven containers, some with up to six gliders, are now being shipped to Walvis Bay by truck. The freighter Green Mountain will take them to Rotterdam. They are expected there in early March. The gliders should then be ready to fly again in Europe in mid-March, just in time for the new cross-country flight season.
The SSN (Soaring Society of Namibia) website states that pilots holding a SPL license together with a valid LAPL medical may fly gliders with European registration in Namibia. Previously, the more complex Class 2 ICAO medical was required. The SSN point out that no definitive, valid statement can be made for neighbouring countries such as Botswana or South Africa.
For glider owners: Please check with your insurance company that this is in accordance with your insurance contract.
Although the season in Bitterwasser seems to be coming to an end in mid-January, the weather is at its best. Pilots from all over the world enjoy impressive thermals, breathtaking cross-country flights over 1000 km and a unique community.