The idea of celebrating outstanding flights by planting palm trees dates back to 1972, when Peter Kayssler, the founder of the Bitterwasser Gliding Centre, established this unique tradition. Initially, palm trees were planted for diamond flights and world records. Later, in 1984, the achievement of the 1,000 km FAI diploma became part of this honour. Since 2019, palms have also been awarded for flights over 1,250 km, in accordance with the rules of the FAI Diploma.
Today, more than 250 palm trees line the famous avenue, each one a living symbol of courage, endurance and flying skill. Margherita Acquaderni has now joined this impressive history. In addition to her passion for gliding, she is President of the Adele Orsi Aero Club Varese in Europe, where she shares her enthusiasm and actively promotes the sport of gliding.
We congratulate Margherita on her great success and wish her many more unforgettable flights at Bitterwasser.
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.
The last season 2023/24 ended with a spectacular highlight for Dmitry Borovyk and Anton Minskii: on the very last day, they managed to fly around three declared turning points that cover an impressive distance of 1250 kilometers. This extraordinary achievement earned them the privilege of planting a palm tree in Bitterwasser - an honor only bestowed on the best pilots. One year later, the two are now returning to Bitterwasser to plant their palm tree in a festive ceremony in keeping with the old Bitterwasser tradition.