Cross Country Alps Flight to Samedan (San Bernardino & Julier Passes)

We left this afternoon for Samedan (LSZS) from a hazy Lugano (visibility 5km). Being allowed to bring a passenger, I asked Karin to be our private photographer and flight hostess :) The flight took us northbound through N to Ceneri, where we turned right towards Bellinzona and levelled off around 8000ft, and then right again towards Roveredo (into valley). Six minutes later we reached Mesocco, where we turned left towards the San Bernardino Pass.

Over San Bernardino

At the pass we made an orbit in order to get used to how to come back in case the other side of the pass does not look good (towards the pass at 45'). We crossed and at Hinterrhein continued towards the v at the end of valley (070), on the way there we went towards Spluegen, checked the ski resort and approached that pass, where a 180' turn was done returning to the valley.

Near Spluegen

Following the Flight Plan

At the junction we turned N towards Thussis, when reaching it we went shortly right towards Tiefencastel, starting our climb to 9000ft for the next pass. At Tiefencastel up towards Bivio and there left to the Julier pass.

View of the Julier Pass

Another orbit was done here to imitate a return and then we crossed and started our decent towards Silvaplana, then circled Silssee. We reported to Samedan Tower and continued with a straight in approach towards LSZS, cleared at W and then reported on final.

Over St.Moritz

We performed 3 landings. Stopping for a hot chocolate at the airport's restaurant.

Visual Approach Chart (VAC) for LSZS

At the Engadin Airport