Gallina

Gallina is a friendly launch in south-eastern Sicily, above the Siracusa hinterland. The takeoff sits in the garden of an empty house — the gate is always open — a bit rocky but easy to launch from. Best directions are S, SE and ESE. A big highland behind means strong wind is not automatically dangerous — you can always find shelter to land. Access is by car right to the launch (even the Google Street View car made it).

Launch & conditions

Takeoff in the garden of an empty house — gate open 24/7. A bit rocky, but easy to launch. Wind directions S, SE, ESE.

Getting there & local rules

By car and on foot — road drivable right up to launch. Landing: just in front of takeoff, easy to reach even without lift. The main hazard is the network of high-voltage lines across the whole agricultural plain — one is about 20 m high, the rest 5–10 m. In flight they're not a problem, but they complicate landings outside the marked LZ. Other landing spots exist but require care.

Local rules & hazards

Strong wind is possible, but the massive highland behind takeoff means you can usually find a safe place to land. The main hazard is the network of high-voltage lines across the agricultural plain — memorise the one that reaches ~20 m.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Gallina, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Gallina with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.