Magnum

60.756616, -149.204567
Updated January 13, 2025

Description

Pilot Recommendations

 

P3 skills recommended

 

In person site intro recommended,

especially for pilots flying XC

Weather Conditions

Wind Direction: 100° - 360°

Min: 0mph / Ideal:5-8mph / Max:10mph / Gust:5mph

 

 

Hazards

This is a backcountry site that is flown infrequently. Pilots should only fly here if they are confident in judging conditions appropriate to their skill level

Ideal launch conditions can vary greatly during time of year and time of day. Pilots are urged to watch conditions for a while before committing to launch

Hazards can include, but are not limited to, water crossings, heinous bushwhacking, animal encounters, weather exposure, extreme terrain and difficult, complex navigation

Restrictions

Do not land within 50' of other recreators

 

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.

Launch

Magnum

Magnum Parking

Weather Considerations

Pilots need to keep a careful watch on weather conditions, both on launch and in the air.

Wind Direction: 180° - 300°

Min: 0mph / Ideal:5-8mph / Max:10mph / Gust:5mph

This site has only been flown a couple of times so there's really not much of a knowledge base but it's probably best in light winds and sun with the prevailing in any direction that doesn't have an east component.

Requirements

Pilots are expected to evaluate the launch, the possible landing areas, the weather, and other conditions.  Flights are at the Pilot's own risk. 

This is a backcountry site with a general recommendation that pilots be P3 level or above.

It is flown infrequently, all hazards inherent to flying a backcountry site in Alaska may be present.

These hazards can include, but are not limited to, water hazards, heinous bushwhacking, animal encounters, weather exposure, extreme terrain and difficult, complex navigation.

Pilots must be comfortable evaluating weather and landing conditions from the air.

This site is located in a complex mountain environment, and strong knowledge of local weather patterns is recommended.

Hazards

Other hikers/spectators/berry pickers may occasionally visit this site and the potential for a conflict exists. Pilots are cautioned to ensure an appropriate distance is maintained between launch and landing activities and the public.  Pilots are expected communicate to the public as needed to maintain clearances. 

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. 

There may be no cell phone reception in many backcountry areas.  Pilots are expected to be prepared for self-rescue and by carrying Spot, InReach or other non-cell based communication equipment.

  • The hike itself is a significant hazard.  Wear pants until you get above the brush and boots are recommended.
  • No cell phone service.
  • Be aware that strong valley winds can build quickly in this area.
  • There is no established launch area.  Twigs and rocks are everywhere.  Make sure your lines are cleared before you launch.
  • Watch out for mechanical turbulence along the ridges and other terrain features.


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.