19 Mar 2025

HG Class 1 Worlds 2027 will take place in Andradas, Brazil

The CIVL Plenary has awarded the 25th FAI World Hang Gliding Class 1 Championship to Andradas, Brazil. It is scheduled to take place from September 5 to 18, 2027. The event will be organized by Henrique Frasson and Alvaro Figueiredo Sandoli (Nenê Rotor), with support from the Confederação Brasileira de Voo Livre (Brazilian Confederation of Free Flight), the Comitê Aerodesportivo do Brasil (Aerosports Committee of Brazil), and the Prefeitura de Andradas (Municipal Administration of Andradas).

A test event is planned from August 23 to September 5, 2026.

Andradas is a municipality in the state of Minas Gerais, located on the border of São Paulo State. According to the 2010 IBGE census, it has a population of 40,522 inhabitants. Situated in the southern region of the state, it boasts mountainous landscapes that attract tourists with activities such as waterfall hikes, trekking, mountain biking, and climbing. The Pico do Gavião Mountain Range, home to the Pico do Gavião Club and its takeoff sites, forms part of the rim of an ancient volcano. Andradas is also near Poços de Caldas, a well-known tourist destination featuring thermal water resorts. The mountain range is crossed by the "Path of Faith," a famous pilgrimage route.

Pico do Gavião

  • Elevation: 1,663m
  • Height difference from takeoff to foothill: 650m (S), 350m (N)
  • Takeoff wind directions: S, SW, W, NW, N
  • All takeoffs are from the same location, eliminating the need for relocation.

At an altitude of 1,663 meters, Pico do Gavião is recognized as one of the best-equipped free-flight clubs in both Brazil and worldwide. The site offers panoramic views of the Serra da Mantiqueira, along with breathtaking scenery surrounding Andradas, Poços de Caldas, and São João da Boa Vista. The launch area features grass and wooden takeoff ramps, making it suitable for departures in almost all wind directions.

Access to the takeoff area is easy, with no need for a 4x4 vehicle. On-site amenities include restrooms, a snack bar, relaxation areas with hammocks, and a children's play area.

Pico do Gavião provides multiple takeoff options, with areas featuring natural grass and wooden platforms. The main wind directions are northeast, north, northwest, west, southwest, and south. The only unsuitable wind direction for takeoff is east, which is rare in the region. The launch ramps undergo frequent inspections to ensure safety and reliability.

Event website https://civlcomps.org/event/hg1-worlds-2027