At the southern end of the Antrim Glens, this site offers breathtaking views of Slemish and, on clear days, across the North Channel to Scotland. The site is bowl shaped, with the launch positioned at a rounded edge near the main cliff.
This location often provides excellent ridge soaring, especially on summer evenings, with good altitude gain. Pilots can fly into the Sallagh bowl, and longer cross-country flights are possible.
Location: Irish Grid Reference D334069
Wind Directions: North-northeast 000 – 060 degrees (ideal at 020). Warning: Avoid flying with any westerly wind component.
Suitable for: Hang gliding and paragliding
Pilot Rating: BHPA Club Pilots; also suitable for students
Access Information
- Road Access: Use Ballycoose Road from Ballygally.
- Parking: Carncastle car park.
- Site Access: From the car park, cross the first stile and follow the path for a 300ft ascent towards the launch area, crossing a second stile along the way.
- Landowner Notification: Contact Campbell Tweed before flying to notify him of your presence. Text or call him at 07802835355.
Site Rules
- Aero Modellers: The site is shared with aero modellers who may be flying gliders up to 1000ft above launch. Pilots should coordinate with other air users before flying.
- Paramotors: UHPC members with BHPA insurance may use the area near the car park for paramotor takeoff and landing, provided no free flying is taking place.
Hazards
- Wind Direction: Wind direction is critical at this site. Pilots unfamiliar with the location should seek guidance from an experienced club pilot or instructor. Do not fly if the wind backs to the north or northwest, as this can result in severe turbulence.
- Fence Below Launch: Exercise caution with nil-wind launches, as minimal clearance can lead to conflicts with the fence below.
- Secondary Ridges: Turbulence may occur from secondary ridges at the base of the cliff when flying low.
Launch Areas
- Northeast Wind: Cross the fence by the gully (use the stile) and proceed to the flat launch area. Be mindful of the wire fence below and track to the right after takeoff.
- Easterly Wind: Launch facing the coast before the gully. This area can be turbulent, so exercise caution.
Landing Zones
- Bottom Landing: Land near the cement road at tzhe base of the hill in front of the takeoff. Be cautious of wire fences and drainage ditches.
- Top Landing: Land in the area behind either launch point or near the car park. Be aware of model gliders and pedestrians.
Air Traffic Control Restrictions
- Class D Airspace: No restrictions over the hill. Class D airspace begins at 2000ft ALT, starting from the southern end of the Sallagh Bowl. Refer to the air map for precise boundaries.