German Open 2026 · Day 5

Date
Distance: 72.57 km
SSS: 13:20
Task deadline: 18:00

AI-generated feedback summary

Responses: 45
Satisfaction: 4.42/5
Safety: 4.62/5

Overall, pilots rated both task satisfaction and safety very positively, with safety perceived even stronger than the task itself. The comments suggest a generally successful day, while still highlighting specific areas to refine.
Several pilots described the task as good, nice, difficult but doable, with the start offering good options thanks to clouds in the flats. Several also criticized the eastern turnpoint B41 as too far into the flat, very cyclic, and lacking an alternative route, making timing there decisive.
Safety feedback was mostly positive, including comments that pilots acted safer than on previous tasks. However, a few pilots reported cloud flying before or during the task, and isolated comments mentioned many collapses over Rubbio.
Pilot behavior drew several concerns around gaggle thermaling, including pilots not respecting left/right turning direction and circling unpredictably. Clear reminders on thermaling etiquette and cloud-clearance expectations could help maintain the safer trend.
Organization received praise for very fast retrieve. A few comments also asked for an earlier task start and noted a long waiting time at the launch place, which reduced enjoyment for some pilots.
Goal format was a recurring concern: several pilots disliked the high or elevated goal, saying it felt less sportive or added complexity. There was also a positive isolated comment that the E-Goal was cool, so views were mixed but criticism was more developed.
Suggested improvements included using elevated goals only when a classic ESS and goal are not safely practical, keeping rules simple, choosing turnpoints with better route alternatives, starting earlier when weather allows, and reinforcing pilot responsibility around cloud flying and thermaling behavior.