Soaring High: Unforgettable XC Flights from the Week of 25 January 2026

Welcome to Volandoo, the world’s premier live tracking and social platform for paragliding and hang gliding pilots. This past week soared to new heights with 593 flights recorded globally, highlighting the passion and perseverance of our amazing flying community. From technical FAI Triangles to demanding hike & fly adventures, pilots showcased extraordinary skills across diverse locations and flying styles. Join us as we celebrate six standout flights that truly embody the spirit of cross-country (XC) excellence and community connection.

Andres Tello Alvarado – Mastering the FAI Triangle at Temascaltepec with the Ozone Enzo 3

Andres Tello Alvarado embarked on a breathtaking FAI Triangle flight at the renowned Temascaltepec site, covering an impressive 200.08 km in just over 7 hours 8 minutes. Navigating 76 thermals, Andres demonstrated supreme endurance and tactical brilliance in capitalising on complex mountain air currents. Flying the high-performance Ozone Enzo 3, known for its agility and glide efficiency, he completed this classic triangular route that tests pilot skill and weather savvy. This milestone flight uplifts the XC community, proving Temascaltepec’s legendary soaring conditions remain unmatched.

Mattin Iñiguez Ormazabal – Epic Hike & Fly Endurance at Roldanillo - El Pico, Aguapanelas

World-class pilot Mattin Iñiguez Ormazabal pushed boundaries at Roldanillo - El Pico, Aguapanelas with a demanding 148.67 km hike & fly effort lasting over 8 hours 17 minutes. Utilising the ultra-light Skywalk X-alps 6, Mattin combined alpine hiking fitness with expert thermal hunting, climbing through 108 strong thermals. This dynamic style demands both physical stamina and fine tuning of soaring technique, perfectly showcased here. His perseverance across challenging terrain and changing conditions inspires pilots of all levels to embrace the hike & fly challenge.

Luis Catalan – Technical FAI Triangle Soaring at Piedra Del Condor

Luis Catalan unveiled a masterclass in precision XC flying at Piedra Del Condor, completing a 139.13 km FAI Triangle in 6 hours 40 minutes. With 74 thermals climbed on his nimble Ozone Zeolite 2 Gt, Luis capitalised on this classic soaring site’s reliable mountain thermals and strategic turnpoints. Executing an FAI Triangle demands sharp navigation and thermal centering—a challenge Luis met with poise. His achievement adds a brilliant chapter to Piedra Del Condor’s reputation for challenging but rewarding XC tasks.

Pablo Mastricchio – Tactical Free Distance Flight Around 3 Turnpoints at Azcuénaga

In a strategic display of skill and speed, Pablo Mastricchio completed a 135.42 km Free Distance flight weaving around three turnpoints at Azcuénaga in a swift 3 hours 36 minutes. Flying the Ozone Zeolite, Pablo efficiently climbed 44 thermals, making smart decisions to maximise glide and minimise time. This flight highlights how tactical route planning and solid thermal technique can turn a classic triangulated course into an exhilarating XC sprint. Pablo’s performance galvanised local and online peers alike, enhancing competitive spirit within the community.

Mano Carlignak – Smooth Free Distance Around 3 Turnpoints at Azcuénaga with Ozone Photon

Close competitor Mano Carlignak achieved a remarkable 135.30 km flight, also circling three turnpoints at Azcuénaga with a steady 3 hours 50 minutes in the air. Piloting the Ozone Photon, Mano tackled 48 thermals with finesse, demonstrating outstanding control and patience to sustain high-performance cross-country flying. Mano’s flight is a testament to consistent preparation and reading mountain weather patterns, serving as inspiration for pilots aiming to bridge strategy with refined technique.

Walter Di Virgilio – Endurance Challenge Completing Free Distance at Azcuénaga on Zeno 2

Walter Di Virgilio rounded out our top flights with a solid 130.39 km Free Distance flight around three turnpoints at Azcuénaga, lasting just over 4 hours 7 minutes. Utilising the performance-oriented Zeno 2 by Ozone, Walter ascended through 62 thermals, maintaining height and speed to optimise the course. His steady approach and tactical decision-making underscore the mental stamina required for XC competitions and long flights. Walter’s achievement contributes to the rich soaring culture at Azcuénaga and enriches our collective XC knowledge.

These flights not only spotlight exceptional individual accomplishments but also nurture the collective enthusiasm that sustains our XC paragliding and hang gliding communities worldwide. Whether you’re a novice dreaming of your first triangle or a seasoned pilot chasing new records, Volandoo remains your trusted companion on every soaring journey.