Mt Blackheath Introduction

Mount Blackheath Site Introduction

Mt Blackheath is the main flying site for the BMHGC. The main launch area faces West and consists of an astroturf area for paragliders and a steel ramp for hang gliders to launch from.

This is both a spectacular and intimidating site which is difficult to understand without a lot of local experience. The site has much to offer, with everything from smooth evening soaring to massive powerful thermals to push you on your way to excellent XC flying.

This site guide is not a complete introduction to the site, that is something that requires specific attention to the conditions on the day, on the hill, and is why we ask visiting pilots to get a site introduction each time you fly until you are experienced enough to make the call yourself.

The Westerly facing site has the following restrictions for both hang glider and paraglider pilots in addition to the Privileges and Limitations imposed by the HGFA operations manual.
  • Student - There are currently no PG/HG schools operating from Mt Blackheath.
  • Supervised/PG2-3 - Require the advice of a BMHGC safety officer on site before flying.
  • Intermediate/PG4 - Require the advice of a BMHGC safety officer on site before flying.
  • Advanced/PG5 - No additional restrictions.
The North ramp is for ADVANCED/PG5 pilots only and is very dangerous.
All care is taken here to describe the Mt Blackheath flying site, however it is significantly dependent on the weather. Paragliding and hang gliding are inherently dangerous sports. Mt Blackheath, due to its unpredictability and exposed mountain location is a dangerous site to fly from. Take the advice and experience described here and talk directly to BMHGC pilots about their experiences to give yourself the best chance of success.

Additional information from blog posts:

Posts to follow:
  • Seasonal weather and forecasts
  • Risks and Previous Accidents
  • XC Routes
  • Local topography and thermals
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