Ikarus Open · Day 3

Date
Distance: 106.78 km
SSS: 13:00
Task deadline: 19:00

AI-generated feedback summary

Responses: 63
Satisfaction: 3.84/5
Safety: 2.75/5

Overall, pilots rated task enjoyment fairly positively, especially compared with the more critical safety rating; the task was appreciated, but safety concerns were a major recurring theme.
Task quality: many pilots liked having a different, scenic, and interesting route, with several specifically praising the views around or above Dachstein. A few also felt the concept was strong even though parts of the route became demanding or slow later on.
Safety: many pilots described the first part of the task as unsafe or very uncomfortable, especially with a large group low in rough lee-side terrain. Several mentioned near misses, full collapses, crowded low saves, and limited landing options, though some pilots still felt the task was acceptable or saw no major safety issue.
Weather and conditions: many comments pointed to strong valley winds, northerly wind, lee-side turbulence, and bumpy thermals that were too small or blown apart to use comfortably. Dachstein, Bischofsmütze, the first turnpoint, and TP3 Rossbrand were repeatedly mentioned as especially rough, windy, or exposed areas.
Pilot behavior: several pilots reported aggressive flying in the start gaggle, at Bischofsmütze, and around the first turnpoint. Specific concerns included pilots not looking before turns, not maintaining a common turning direction, and creating avoidable conflicts in crowded climbs.
Organization and task design: several pilots felt the first turnpoint was poorly placed for the day’s wind, including comments that it was too far in the lee and created a difficult fight against valley wind and traffic. A few pilots also said the route over or near Dachstein and Bischofsmütze was very sporty for the conditions.
Suggestions for improvement: several pilots asked for lee sides, strong-wind areas, and places like Dachstein to be highlighted more strongly in the briefing. Other suggestions included adding a safety turnpoint to avoid spicy lee sections, avoiding Bischofsmütze in similar conditions, offering more start options before SSS, and considering shorter tasks after multiple long task days.