Arco da Calheta - Rochao
📍 Madeira , Calheta · Nearest city: Arco da Calheta (2 km)
24 XC score / 100 · takeoff at 818 m · 📍 View on map
Coordinates and external links
32.72630, -17.13480Forecast next days
Updated: 2026-04-21 02:14 UTC · Source: Open-Meteo · Thermal window 10:00–18:00 local time
Marginal conditions, cloud base ~783 m, wind 10 km/h.
base ~783m · wind 10 km/hMarginal conditions, cloud base ~536 m, wind 13 km/h.
base ~536m · wind 13 km/hFlyable day, decent conditions, cloud base ~208 m, wind 13 km/h, precipitation 1.0 mm.
base ~208m · wind 13 km/h · precip 1.0mmComposite flyability score (CAPE + LI + wind + precip + low clouds). Cross-check with local pilots before flying.
🌬 Daily wind (next days)
Daily summary (10m wind). Full hour × altitude chart is being added progressively.
Takeoff orientations
Green = good orientation · Yellow = possible · Gray = not suitable
Why this site has thermal potential
| Factor | Value | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Hotspot density (5 km) | 0 | Low |
| Avg thermal probability | 0.00 | Based on thousands of aggregated IGC flights |
| Solar orientation | 0.76 | Slope faces south in northern hemisphere |
| Own flight history | 0.00 | Thermals detected in platform IGC tracks |
Takeoff description
The best takeoff in Madeira Island for XC-Flights. Many of the local competitions are held there due to its frequent good flying conditions all year round. Frequent meeting point to local pilots. Foreign pilots welcome. Gentle, wide and long slope. Not in the rotor, without cranes nearby, also cactus free and without buildings.
Rules and notes
You always need a valid pilot licence and insurance.
Pilot comments
This takeoff is free of charge but it's private please always contact www.voolivremadeira.com before flying at this takeoff. Barbeque, Tables and Benches available nearby free to use.
Nearby sites
Arco da Calheta (24) · Rabacal (Madeira) (26) · Canhas (20) · Paul da Serra Cristo Rei (27) · Paul da Serra Juncal (28) · Pico Gordo (25)