The Gondola is currently closed to recreational flying anytime that the Airport Control Tower is on watch... which is every day, most of the day. DO NOT fly there just because you see someone else flying. (G-Force have a special exemption to fly) We're working on getting the airspace opened back up, but these things take time. For now, you can't fly there unless the tower is closed. This is not a suggestion, it is actually illegal to do so. And yes, "illegal" in the true sense of the word... you can be arrested for it. Airspace The only time we can fly at the moment is when the Tower is off watch, so it's all GAA airspace. But, please don't fly close to the Skyline buildings, Luge or Gondola. By close, they mean 200 meters. Remember, the Skyline managers office is up there... so, yes... someone is always watching. Weather As always, get a good site introduction. "The Southerly" can kick in at the Gondola rather quickly. Keep an eye on Wakitipu for whitecaps and wind lines. It's easy to avoid if you know what to look for. You do have to know to look. Westerlies and Northerlies can swirl around and "blow in" on takeoff hiding the undesirable flying conditions. When in doubt, ask the G-Force boys. They fly that site all day. Landing Only G-Force (comecial tandems) land at the Primary School. Recreational pilots land mainly at the Rugby field, but sometimes also at the highschool. It is not ok to land at the Primary School even if G-Force is not busy. G-Force pays to land there. They are the only ones allowed to.  One would think this to be obvious, but please don't land in the Rugby when they're using it. People have actually done this and it's a bit silly. They're not impressed and it greatly jeopardizes our wonderful flying site. Takeoff Please don't use the G-Force takeoff.They've gone through a whole heap of politics and money for that site. The solo takeoffs are a short hike up the hill. Again, do not fly here without a proper introduction. This is an exceptionally sensitive site. A few simple rules and we get to have loads of fun right in town! BTW, when in doubt, ask the G-Force boys. They'll point you in the right direction... it's in their best interest after all. |