DG Times3🧭 Overview

This ASA webinar, hosted by Dan Malone, provided an in-depth overview of five airports across the U.S. suitable for self-launching glider operations. Presenters shared operational details, facilities, local soaring conditions, and logistical considerations for each location. The session emphasized the growing community of motor glider pilots and encouraged collaboration for future camps and events.Date: April 16 2026

Time: 17:45–19:00 (America/Denver)
Host: Dan Malone (ASA Vice President)
Presenters: 

Rob Cluxton, Robert Caldwell, Tim Delaney, Tom Sine, and others

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Attendees: ~30 participants

You can find the presentation here youtube logo

 

 

 

 

 

Key takeaways included:

  • Detailed operational and camping information for airports in West Virginia, Colorado, and Nevada.
  • Seasonal guidance for optimal soaring conditions.
  • Discussion of facilities, runway characteristics, and safety considerations for self-launch operations.
  • Announcement of an upcoming ASA Camp East event in Arkansas (August 8–20).

Key Topics Discussed

1. Greater Cumberland Regional (CBE) & Grant County (W99), West Virginia – Rob Cluxton

  • CBE: Two paved runways; glider operations primarily on 11/29.
  • Facilities include a terminal, restaurant, and limited camping; keycard access required.
  • Petersburg (W99): 5,000-ft runway, camping pavilion with showers and 50-amp hookups, ideal for wave flying up to 25,000 ft.

2. Salida, Colorado – Robert Caldwell

  • Central Colorado location with strong mountain soaring potential.
  • Runway 6/24 with downhill slope eastward; typical takeoff on 6 and landing on 24.
  • Best flying from May–September; notable for “14er Challenge” and long cross-country flights.
  • Emphasis on mountain flying safety and crosswind awareness.

3. Delta (Blake Field), Colorado – Tim Delaney

  • 5,600-ft paved runway with slight uphill slope; friendly FBO and no tie-down fees.
  • Excellent soaring on Grand Mesa and Uncompahgre Plateau; convergence lines common.
  • Active EAA community; informal fly-ins and summer operations from April–October.

4. Ely, Nevada – Tom Seim

  • 6,300-ft elevation; extensive facilities including showers, kitchen, RV hookups, and oxygen service.
  • Ideal for long-distance flights (1,000–1,300 km possible).
  • Strong thermals and convergence lines; crosswinds common.
  • Primarily motor glider operations; towplanes only occasionally available.

5. ASA Camp East Announcement – Dan Malone

  • Planned for Heber Springs Airport, Arkansas (Aug 8–20, 2026).
  • Limited to ~10–12 gliders; contact Steve D. for participation.