What is the GFL?
What our generation knows today as friendship, exchange and unforgettable nights once started with a single goal:
winning a brass strip — The GFL Cup.
What began as just one day on the slopes has since grown into a full week of international winter sports for air traffic controllers.
That is why we are here at Kreischberg in Styria, from January 17–24, 2026, celebrating the 51st edition of the Golden Flight Level (GFL), organized by air traffic controllers based in Karlsruhe.
The GFL was founded in 1976 by air traffic controllers from Munich and Vienna, who worked together every day without ever meeting in person. They created the event to connect, exchange ideas, and compete on the slopes.
Explore the GFL spirit of the past years!
Beyond the sporting competitions, the heart of the GFL remains the social aspect: meeting colleagues from different countries, sharing experiences, discussing air traffic control, and building friendships across borders — on and off the slopes.
Today’s GFL includes ski, snowboard and a cross-country ski race as well as a spectacular program to round off the week. We hold an opening ceremony, ease up the week with a theme evening including a party and announce the winners at the farewell gala.
Beyond the sporting competitions, the heart of the GFL remains the social aspect: meeting colleagues from different countries, sharing experiences, discussing air traffic control, and building friendships across borders — on and off the slopes.