PIREPs by Fabian

LFNS is a beautifully located airfield in Provence, primarily dedicated to glider operations. Powered aircraft generally require prior permission (PPR), but I’ve never had any issues (been there three times with PA28 and M20M). Apparently, having a reason ("business lunch" at the superb airfield restaurant, or a visit to the E-Props factory) is sufficient to justify an E-class landing. Radio communications in French only. Be advised: heavy towing activity, so the paved runway is not always available. When towing is in progress, land on the adjacent grass only and join the sequence with the tow aircraft. Do not overfly the gliders parked on the paved runway ("piste dure"). No fuel available, unless you know someone from the club who can sell you AVGAS charged to their account.

Wonderful small airfield right on the Rhein riverbank. Grass runway, fairly short due to obstacles at both ends. Have landed there with a Mooney Bravo as well, but not at MTOW. C182 no problem. Great approach over the Rhein or the city. Landing and parking fees negligible. Fuel: MOGAS only; primarily for club use—ask nicely. Caution: lunch break 12:00–15:00.

Very nicely located airfield in the (Lower Bavarian) Inntal. Beer garden (currently a good Italian restaurant), LTB (with avionics) and an ultralight flight school on site. Everyone is very friendly. PPR on weekdays; usually active. Fuel moderately priced (AVGAS, JET A1). Landing and parking fees are OK.

Schleißheim is my home base. Busy powered and glider ops. Limited PPR allocation for visiting aircraft—it's usually used up sometime in the autumn, but you might still get lucky. Great beer garden, highly recommended. Fuel available: AVGAS, MOGAS and JETA1, though it's on the pricey side... Unfortunately, it's hard to get away from there without a car. If you can bring a folding bike or a scooter, you can get into Oberscheißheim and to the S-Bahn fairly quickly. On foot it's about 40 min... The aviation museum is also nice and within walking distance.