Plaine-Joux
Déco
One of the most popular sites in France — and for good reason: it’s also one of the most beautiful in the world! Located in the town of Passy, right across from Mont-Blanc, the views are absolutely breathtaking.
Plaine-Joux offers an easy, accessible take-off where you can fly often — what more could you ask for?
Plaine-Joux take-off
A carpeted launch facing south, fairly well sheltered from northerly winds by the Fiz range. Watch out mainly for southwesterlies, which can create sink on the way to the landing zones and put you in the lee of the terrain.
Wing prep is done on the gravel or behind the barriers (blue area on the map).
The launch is accessible to wheelchair-assisted paragliding. Please give them priority in the central lane.
Chedde landing
The main landing area for paragliders is Chedde.
With 750 m of height difference, it can be reached with a glide ratio of 3.5.
Hang-gliders are not allowed: the field is too small for safe landings.
Marlioz landing
Also known as “Batistock”.
It’s the only landing option for hang-gliders.
With 760 m of height difference, it requires a glide ratio of 6 — which makes it less ideal for paragliders from Plaine-Joux in light conditions.
Top landing
It’s possible to land back at Plaine-Joux when the ski resort is closed. The landing is to the northeast of the take-off area, along the plexiglass tunnel (purple area on the map).
Once conditions are well established, this area is in the lee of the trees, so it’s reserved for experienced pilots.
Landing on the carpeted launch is not allowed.
Rules
- Priority to wheelchairs in the central lane of the launch
- Top landing: not allowed on the carpet. Landing along the plexiglass tube is possible when the ski resort is closed
- No ground handling on the carpet during busy periods
- Keep the area in front of the take-off clear; avoid low flying when it’s crowded
- Hang-gliders must land at Marlioz; Chedde is too small for safe landings
- Natural reserve south and east of the Platé peak; overflight prohibited below 300 m above ground
Other flying sites
