Solo flying on the practice slope
On the practice slope, you learn how to safely launch a solo glider. Eventually, you'll make short flights just a few meters high. It's quite physically demanding, but if you're in good shape, you can make 10 to 12 launches a day, making significant progress!
By the end of this internship, you'll be proficient with your flying equipment and able to independently launch, fly, and land on the practice slope. You can then move on to the advanced course (DFA2) or the winching and mountain flying course (DFA3).
For beginners and advanced users
This internship is mandatory for beginners (DFA1) who want to fly solo, and for anyone who wants to participate in mountain flying (DFA3). Do you already have a B2 or B3 diploma and want learn mountain flying? Then this internship is perfect for you too.
Are you an experienced pilot with a B2 or B3 mountain rating but haven't flown enough in the mountains? Then book this internship with a great discount. After a few days on the slopes, you'll be confidently back at the starting line and will have a few new flying buddies.
Program and daily schedule
On Thursday evening, we'll start with an introduction to slope launching, the flying site, and the equipment. On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, we'll start at dawn to practice in calm air.
After flying, we'll evaluate the videos, and after a communal lunch, you can choose between an afternoon nap or an excursion. In the evening, we sometimes do a few more flights. If we're not flying, it's an early night or a cozy campfire. It's a wonderful place surrounded by nature where we can do whatever we want.
- Arrival, course briefing, terrain exploration and theory
- Building up material, lesson flights , video evaluation
- Visit Neumagen air base and other excursions
- Theory about mountain flying, meteorology and safety
Course content
On the first day, you'll start at the bottom to get used to running down the slope. Once you've got the kite under control, you can start at the top. And if you land at the bottom, a flying buddy will pick you up and bring you and your kite back up with the quad – that saves a lot of energy!
- 3 to 4 days of lessons on the practice slope
- Floor exercises and video analysis
- Theory lessons on aerodynamics, meteorology, flight techniques and materials
- Safety training (including first aid and emergency procedures)
- Personal feedback and learn observations
- Attention to Human Factors and personal development
Inclusive and exclusive
When you register, you can choose to use school supplies or your own equipment. If you'd like to take your own equipment to the mountains, be sure to come and practice! This way, you'll know exactly what to expect from you and your gear.
The internship also includes third-party liability insurance. It excludes KNVvL membership, other insurance, accommodation, and, optionally, a contribution towards breakfast and lunch. Please ensure you have adequate travel insurance with accident coverage.
More about the course and location
Want to know more about the location and accommodation, the course structure, or the schedule? Here are some helpful links.
Green tip
Carpooling is fun, affordable, and better for the environment. A few weeks before the internship, we'll connect you with other participants so you can arrange carpooling. The location is also accessible by train.

Verified owner Sean Roberts (verified owner) –
A top place to learn how to land on your feet.