We are mourning the loss of Hansjörg Schweizer

Hansjörg Schweizer - a long-standing member and guest of Bitterwasser - passed away yesterday here in his second home.

Hansjörg was a founding member of Bitterwasser(PTY)LTD. Without the commitment of these founders, Bitterwasser would not be the paradise that all pilots in the world know it to be today.  

For over 30 years, Hansjörg (left in the picture) was an integral part of the Bitterwasser community - not only as a passionate glider pilot, but above all as a friend. With over 2,300 flying hours in a glider from Bitterwasser alone, he knew this region like no other. He was proud to have completed his 500th glider flight in Namibia, covering over 1000 km, just a few days before his death. However, he not only flew over Namibia in a glider, but also in a motorized aircraft. He was also one of the pilots who carried out temperature flights every morning in the early days to obtain weather information for gliding. His stories, his passion for flying and his special manner will be fondly remembered.

Even in his last days, Hansjörg was still doing what he loved most: flying. Together with his friend Carl Schönherr (pictured right), he once again experienced the Kalahari from above.

It is with great sadness, but also with deep gratitude for his commitment to Bitterwasser, that we bid farewell to Hansjörg Schweizer.

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What a start to the season!

The early birds did it. Elmar Fischer and Reinhard Schramme struck in the first few days. Here is Elmar's report:

Loading of gliders in 2025

On the weekends of September 6/7, 2025, and September 13/14, 2025, 30 gliders were loaded into seven containers to begin the long journey to Bitterwasser, Namibia.

All gliders are very well booked. There are still a few slots available at the beginning of November. If you are interested, please contact  hog@bitterwasser.com.