Lookout Mountain is a challenging flying site and is at heightened risk for loss of access due to the high visibility and multiple permit holders that allow our access. The sponsorship program was developed in response to a historically high rate of incidents, particularly among pilots who were not thoroughly familiar with the site risks. The sponsorship program today serves to provide information and mentorship to pilots as they begin flying the site and learning its intricacies. 

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The program also serves to protect our site access as our permit holders have requested a higher level of pilot tracking and accountability within our organization as a prerequisite for flying Lookout. 

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The purpose of the program is not to keep pilots out, but rather to keep pilots safer. We believe that the sponsorship program fosters a well-informed and thereby safer community of pilots. We look forward to helping you be safe and have fun at this incredible flying site!

Sponsors are experienced pilot volunteers who are enthusiastic about safety, information sharing, and mentorship. When you contact a sponsor, they will recommend the best time for your site briefing and first flight. Your site briefing will cover the important aspects of flying at Lookout including weather and the site's complexities. Your sponsor will walk the LZs with you and accompany you to launch to continue discussions. Sponsorees must have a working radio capable of receiving on 158.400 DCS 23 to hear mentorship from sponsors and other pilots.