8Courchevel Altiport, France
High in the French Alps, Courchevel Altiport is famous for its unusual runway, which looks more like a ski slope than a conventional landing strip.
Situated at approximately 2,000 metres above sea level, the airport has a runway measuring around 537 metres, with a steep gradient of approximately 18.5 percent. The uphill slope helps aircraft slow down after landing, while the opposite direction presents its own operational challenges.
Surrounded by mountainous terrain, the airport offers very limited room for error and does not have a conventional go-around option. Pilots need specific mountain-flying experience and appropriate qualifications to operate here.
Courchevel is particularly busy during the winter season, when wealthy visitors arrive by private aircraft and helicopters to enjoy the famous French ski resort.
