Soar Through the Disney-Inspired Castle: Unbelievable Wingsuit Stunt

Walt Disney drew inspiration from the Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany for his Sleeping Beauty castle. This iconic landmark attracts approximately 1.4 million visitors annually, making it a popular tourist destination. However, for professional skydiver Max Manow, the castle holds a special place in his heart, as it has been a constant presence in his life since childhood, evoking fond memories.

However, in September, Manows had an incredible encounter as he became the pioneer to disconnect from a paraglider in mid-air and soar past Neuschwanstein Castle clad solely in a wingsuit.

The daring German experienced a heart-stopping 328-foot plunge before zooming by the castle, achieving an astonishing top speed of 124 mph.

Manow shared with CNN Sport that he had fulfilled a personal aspiration. Growing up just a short distance from the castle, he had witnessed paragliding for the first time in that very location. Hence, this project holds a significant place in his heart.

Having playfully mentioned the idea numerous times, Manow eventually saw it materialize into reality. He suggested the notion of utilizing a paraglider to reach the ideal spot and then initiating the wingsuit flight from there.

A little bit of inventing

This particular flight was unique for Manow, necessitating a new approach to his preparations. Unlike previous years, he had no prior experience as a paragliding pilot. Consequently, he had to begin from the very beginning, diligently learning the fundamentals of glider control.

As well as taking various practice flights, the skydiver also built a special paragliding harness into his wingsuit to safely release himself.

Max Manow flew past Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria in a wingsuit.

Joerg Mitter/RDBLP/Red Bull/AP

Manow revealed that the process involved a combination of inventing and experimentation to determine what would be effective and what wouldn't.

In order to guarantee the safe landing of the paraglider away from any onlookers, I conducted various tests to ascertain its drift distance.

It was all math

"This spot isn't the most convenient one: it isn't particularly elevated from where I leapt, but once the paraglider was set in motion, as soon as I soared into the air, everything unfolded just as I had envisioned countless times in my mind."

Manow expressed his "fascination" with his inaugural skydive at the age of 14. Despite having accumulated over 10,000 flights of experience, the German aviator admitted that nerves still played a role before his most recent accomplishment.

Manow confessed feeling a bit sick after having lunch right before the flight. It dawned on them that their heart had been racing all day long. As they stood on the takeoff point, a thought crossed their mind, "Man, this is it."

Manow used an adapted wingsuit system that he built himself for the flight.

Joerg Mitter/RDBLP/Red Bull/AP

Experiencing the breathtaking beauty of this location, yet simultaneously grappling with logistical concerns: Am I in the correct position? Will I arrive punctually? Do I possess sufficient altitude to execute the drop? When should I release the paraglider?

According to Manow, discussions surrounding other captivating endeavors have already begun. However, for now, he desires to allow everything to be absorbed and processed.

"Honestly, I haven't fully comprehended the magnitude of what transpired," he remarked. "At present, I am simply elated to have successfully completed this endeavor.

"Starting from the initial pitch to the actual execution of the project, encompassing all the arduous efforts that went into it, holds great significance for me. To this day, it remains the most unforgettable leap I have ever taken in my career."