Bucket List: Alpine Altiports

Nine high-elevation airports in the French Alps beckon pilots with a sense of adventure.

Julie Boatman

Thursday, May 05, 2022 at 02:25 PM ET

Verified

[Photo: Jessica Ambats]

Key Takeaways:

Courchevel Altiport (LFLJ) is a notoriously challenging, high-elevation, VFR-only airport in the French Alps, featuring a uniquely steep, sloped runway and demanding flight operations.
Pilots must obtain an EASA mountain rating along with site-specific training for each French altiport due to their distinct features, weather, and operational requirements.
Proficiency-based mountain flight courses, such as those offered by Alpine Airlines, focus on mastering techniques like close-terrain flying, managing performance in dynamic air, and adapting to the sloped runway.
Beyond the aviation challenge, Courchevel is a premier resort within Les Trois Vallées, offering extensive skiing, luxury amenities, Michelin-starred dining, and various other high-end recreational activities.

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“The child who lives at the foot of the mountains considers with astonishment mixed with terror the gigantic world where there are entwined glittering glaciers and dark rocks, this world which is infinite, the all powerful.”
–MAURICE HERZOG, “LA MONTAGNE”

While summertime brings more daylight, the winter can offer better performance at altitude, and changing winds. [Photo: Timo Breidenstein]

Flying High

Courchevel (LFLJ) is well known as a challenging airport worldwide, with stunning views, and a staggering appearance to the neophyte and expert pilot alike. When we pinned back the curtains on this place, we confirmed that caution, dedicated training, and careful planning are key to enjoying this runway cradled in the Alps.