While the tourists flock to the summit, the "Stütze 9" (Support Pillar 9) launch site remains a tactical favorite for those who understand the mountain's history. Named after the concrete footing of the old lift system, this site is not a sprawling alpine flower meadow. It is a steep, engineered cut through the treeline—an acceleration ramp designed for immediate lift.

This dossier breaks down the specific utility of Stütze 9. Positioned lower than the Engerle at 1,580m, it sits in the "Goldilocks" zone—high enough to catch the valley thermals, but protected enough to offer different wind solutions. It is a "GO" for pilots (with warnings) and a prime spot for high-energy tandem launches where a quick takeoff run is required.

Site Analysis

The Assets

Steep Gradient: The slope angle allows for very short takeoff runs. In light wind, gravity does the work for you.
The "Slot": Being a cut in the forest, the airflow is channeled. This can smooth out crosswinds but requires accurate ground handling to keep the wing tracked straight.
Access: It requires less hiking than the Engerle. You traverse down/across from the chairlift rather than hiking 150m up.

The Liabilities

Margin for Error: The run is narrow. If you veer left or right during inflation, you are in the trees. Aborting must be done early.
Surface: Unlike the manicured Kesselmoos, the ground here can be rougher, with roots and stumps near the forest edge.
Traffic: Due to its steepness and efficiency, it is often favored by tandem pilots who want to get airborne quickly. Respect the queue.

Operational Specs

Parameter	Data
Elevation	~1,580m AMSL
Orientation	North / North-East (N-NO)
Classification	DHV "Schwer" (Difficult) due to aisle nature
Primary Hazard	Tree proximity on lateral sides
Ideal Conditions	Dynamic North wind or light thermal cycles

For the Tandem Passenger: "The Running Start"

If you book a flight with local operators like Fly Royal or Flugschule Pfronten, you might launch here.
The Experience: Unlike a gentle slope where you jog, Stütze 9 requires a few committed steps. The ground drops away fast. You will feel a strong upward "pluck" as the wing bites into the air. It is visceral and fast.
The Thrill: Ask for "Acro" maneuvers. The pilots here can perform wingovers and spirals that generate up to 4G. It’s a rollercoaster without rails.

For the Solo Pilot: "The Slot Machine"

Wind Management: The forest cut blocks the true meteo wind at ground level. Use the windsock reliability but watch the trees at the top of the cut to see the true flow. If the trees are thrashing, the "calm" in the slot is a lie (rotor trap).
Launch Technique: Cobra launch or a very clean reverse is recommended. You do not have the width to fix a skewed wing.

Logistics & Cost

The Cost of Gravity

Tandem Flight: ~€150 - €170 (Base). Add €30 for photos/video.
Lift Ticket: Not included! You must buy a "Bergfahrt" for ~€21.50.
Total "Day Out" Cost: Expect to spend ~€230 per person once you factor in parking, food, and the flight.

Access Route

Take the Hochalpbahn chairlift. From the top station, follow signs for "Startplätze." Stütze 9 is typically a traverse down or across, contrasting with the hike up to Engerle. This makes it the "Lazy Pilot's" choice, but the technical launch balances the physical ease.