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 (LFLJ) is a highly challenging, high-elevation altiport in the French Alps, demanding extensive pilot skill, careful planning, and dedicated training due to its unique sloped runway and dynamic mountain environment.
Pilots wishing to operate at French altiports must obtain an EASA-issued mountain rating, along with additional site-specific qualification training from the French DGAC.
The proficiency-based mountain rating course, typically 20+ hours, focuses on specialized techniques such as flying close to terrain, managing performance in varied air conditions, and executing precise landings and takeoffs on steeply pitched runways.

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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.