Lough Navar is a north-facing ridge spanning 5 miles, with launch areas between 900ft and 1100ft above sea level. Known for ridge and thermal soaring, this rarely-used site offers breathtaking views of Lough Erne and has potential for XC flights into central Ireland, making it a promising option for cross-country pilots.
Location: Irish Grid Reference H060576
Wind Directions: North, 340 – 360 degrees (optimal at 350)
Suitable for: Hang gliding and paragliding
Pilot Rating: BHPA Club Pilot
Access Information
- Road Access: Take the turn marked “Forest Drive” from the main Derrygonnelly to Garrison road.
- Parking: Park in the car park adjacent to the launch area, ensuring the vehicle does not obstruct access to the launch.
Site Access
- Preparing to Launch: Rig your glider in the car park, taking care not to endanger any members of the public, and then move forward to the launch area.
Site Rules and Hazards
- Local Guidance: Pilots unfamiliar with Lough Navar should seek guidance from an experienced club pilot or instructor.
- Hazards:
- Steep Launch: The primary launch area has a 70-degree slope, becoming a cliff, suitable only for experienced pilots. A hang glider nose man is recommended.
- Wind Gradient: The top landing area has severe wind gradient, so additional care is required.
Launch and Landing Zones
- Launch Areas:
- Primary Launch: Located in front of or to the side of the car park, with a steep 70-degree incline that transitions into a cliff.
- Alternative Grassy Launch: A secondary, grassy launch area with a gentler slope is located about 500 yards east (right) of the car park. This launch is visible from the car park and has been successfully used for both PG and HG flights. However, further testing is needed to confirm its reliability as a primary launch area.
- Bottom Landing Zone:
- The main bottom landing area is a small flat field about half a mile to the left of the launch, near Lough Erne, with limited overshoot space, making it challenging for hang gliders.
- Safer Landing Options: Additional landing fields are available further along the ridge, just beyond Glenereawon Lough. These fields are safer for hang gliders, but the ridge must be soarable to reach them.
- Top Landing Zone:
- Located a quarter mile behind the steep ridge, this top landing area is suitable for hang gliders only. Approach with extra speed to handle turbulence, as you may encounter a sudden increase in ground speed during final descent due to wind shear.
- Paraglider Landing Potential: The area behind the alternative grassy launch site may serve as a top landing zone for paragliders, but this has not yet been confirmed.
- Car Park Caution: Do not attempt a top landing in the car park due to the presence of rotor.
Air Traffic Control Restrictions
- None: There are no air traffic control restrictions for Lough Navar.