As the optimal take-off time can be well determined by the morning weather briefing, almost all aircraft move towards the take-off position within a short time. This is where the Line-Boys come to help.
A second look at the correct fit of the parachutes, the safety belts and the activated SPOTS as well as assistance with boarding shortly prior take-off makes a difference. A final check of the wind conditions and a long carry of the wings during the take-off run, make the morning departures both comfortable and additionally safe.
In the evening, when up to 25 planes come to land towards sunset time, all handles have to be in place. Thanks to the large salt pan with variable take-off and landing directions and the support of the Line-Boys, all aircraft can also land late in a short time - and make optimum use of day lengths.
The well-rehearsed team then takes care of the logistics and the safe way back of the aircraft to the parking positions: Often the pilots haven't even opened the canopy while the aircraft is already attached to the car and ready to go.
When available, the guys are on hand as "private helpers". The line boys take care of packing and unpacking, cleaning and polishing the aircraft and more - a great service.
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.