Torr Head Flying Site Guide
Torr Head is a coastal ridge site that spans 6 miles, stretching from Fair Head to Loughan Bay. The site offers various options, including inland ridges and sea cliffs, with stunning views of Rathlin Island and the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. As a true coastal site, it lacks a bottom landing directly below the launch, so pilots should plan accordingly. In ideal conditions, smooth ridge soaring is possible, and flights to Murlough Bay and back can be achieved.
Location: Irish Grid Reference D213410
Wind Directions: Northeast, 030 – 060 degrees (optimal at 045)
Suitable for: Paragliding and hang gliding
Pilot Rating: BHPA Club Pilot with at least 10 hours of airtime
Access Information
- Road Access: From the A2 Coast Road, Torr Head is located just east of the Torr Head road, a few miles south of Murlough Bay. The site is easily identifiable by a moderate-sized radio mast with a small red light on top.
- Parking: Park to the side of the road near the radio mast access gate, without obstructing the gate or other traffic. If you have access to the summit, use the minimum number of vehicles to limit impact.
Site Access
- Summit Access: The short road to the summit can be walked or driven if key access is available. The gate is often open due to regular use by a local farmer. If it is locked, the key is typically found on the gate pillar.
Site Rules and Hazards
- Gate Security: Always secure the gate after passing through. Ensure parking does not obstruct the private road.
- Pilot Guidance: Pilots unfamiliar with Torr Head should seek advice from an experienced club pilot for detailed site information, as there are several hazards. Avoid flying low over the sea, as this poses extreme danger.
Hazards
- Sea Cliffs: With no bottom landing available directly below launch due to the sea, the designated bottom landing zone is a quarter-mile to the right.
- Cliff to the Right of Launch: This small cliff generates turbulence. Avoid launching or top-landing downwind of this cliff.
- Sea Safety: Do not fly low over the sea. If altitude is lost, a crash landing onshore is preferable to continuing out to sea, which could be fatal.
Launch and Landing Zones
- Launch: The grassy launch area is smooth and should not present issues. Be cautious of the small cliff to the right, which can create turbulence.
- Bottom Landing Zone: Bottom landings directly below the launch are not possible due to the sea. The designated bottom landing zone is located a quarter-mile to the right. For hang gliders, bottom landings may be challenging due to sloping fields and may require a crosswind approach. Paraglider landings are generally easier, and several shoulder areas are available for emergency landings if altitude is lost.
- Top Landing Zone: A good top landing area is located behind the launch. Be mindful of the radio mast antenna and the rotor effect downwind of the small cliff.
Air Traffic Control Restrictions
- None: There are no air traffic control restrictions over Torr Head.