Description
This site is NOT managed by the Arctic Air Walkers, but is included here for informational purposes only. Flying at this site is entirely at the pilot’s risk. There are many remote mountain hike-n-fly sites in the Anchorage area and other areas of Alaska. Since these sites are typically in State or National Forest Service Land, there are no man-made hazards. The precise launch and landing areas are typically undefined since these sites are above tree line and there are often numerous locations on the mountain where pilots can set up and launch. This site is not suitable for P2 pilots, and pilots are encouraged to seek out pilots who are experienced with flying at this site in order to fly here.
Magnum is the ridge just south of Sunburst. Take the trail described on the Sunburst page until you break out of the brush then cross a small gully and head up the ridge to a wide plateau that's perfect for launching down the ridge or off either side.
Weather Considerations
This is a Mountain Thermal and Ridge Site, requiring suitable weather evaluation.
Requirements
This is a Mountain Thermal and Ridge Site, requiring suitable pilot skills.
Magnum and other similar peaks near Turnagain Pass are Mountain Ridge and Thermal Site. This site is NOT managed by the Arctic Air Walkers, and this informational site guide is provided to assist pilots in making good decisions about flying at this site.
P3 is the recommended pilot level. This site is not managed by the Arctic Air Walkers and there are no specific requirements to fly here aside from strong launching skills and good judgment. Pilots should have P3 skills, but because it is a remote site, with greater consequences for messing up, pilots should follow the USHPA recommended operating limitations for P2 pilots, which are:
- Maximum base wind of 12 mph.
- Maximum peak gusts to 15 mph.
- Maximum gust rate of 5 mph in 5 seconds
- Should not fly in thermal lift where peak climb rates exceed 200 fpm.
- Launch from slopes steeper than 4:1 with the wind within 25 degrees of being straight up the slope.
Hazards
This is a natural mountain site and there are many natural hazards that are common to many natural mountain sites in Alaska that could be a hazard for pilots. Maintain awareness of the large power lines that go through the Turnagain Pass area.
WARNING: The descriptions of typical flying conditions listed in this Site Guide reflect the experience of the authors of the guide. The conditions that you encounter at the site may differ, sometimes substantially, from those described. These descriptions may not be relevant to the possible experience of any other pilot, particularly one who is relatively inexperienced or new to the Site.