A PC-12 departing Courchevel Altiport is one of those flights you respect long before you fly it.

A few facts that matter before the power comes up:

• Elevation: ~6,588 ft (2,008 m)

• Runway: 22 only

• Length: ~1,762 ft (537 m)

• Slope: ~18.5% downhill

• Operations: VFR only, daylight

• No go-around once committed

You don’t “try” Courchevel.

You calculate it.Weight trimmed. Density altitude checked. Wind read carefully. Once you advance the power, the runway drops away fast and the valley becomes your departure path.

From the outside it looks extreme.

From the cockpit it’s calm, quiet, and very disciplined.

Mountain flying isn’t about bravado.

It’s about preparation and respecting places that don’t give second chances.

Would you take the jumpseat for this one? ✈️