4.12: Custom Airfields

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--Courchevel Airport: Courchevel, France--

*Why is it Dangerous: Courchevel Airport is located in the French Alps; the largest linked ski area in the world. This airport is home to a relatively shorter runway, about 1700 feet long, and has a large hill towards the middle of the strip. The runway is so short that pilots have to land on an inclined strip to slow down the aircraft's speed, while the pilot has to takeoff on a decline to gather enough speed for a successful take off. Pilots are required to obtain certification before they even attempt to conquer this dangerous runway.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tBPOH4aXq8

--Lukla Airport: Khumbu, Nepal--

*Why is it Dangerous: The Lukla Airport is surrounded by huge mountain terrain, thin air, and a highly unpredictable climate. Apart from all these shortcomings, the short, sloping runway of the airport makes a pilot's job all the more challenging. Due to the changeable weather, sometimes flights are delayed or the airport is closed for the day. Some pretty nasty accidents have occurred ever since its inception; on October 12, 2010, a Sita Air Dornier Do 228 lost braking control during landing and damaged its nose. Thankfully, all the passengers and crew members survived without any injuries.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czmUIbg3N8o

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