Mach Loop

The Mach Loop is a chain of valleys in west-central Wales, between Dolgellau and Machynlleth. It lies eight miles east of Barmouth, within Low Flying Area 7. The valleys form part of the UK Low Flying System for military training. Fast jets use the valleys to practise low-level flying. The loop takes its name from Machynlleth, the nearest town. The loop attracts pilots from several air forces. British aircraft include RAF Typhoons, Hawks and A400M transports. American jets such as F-15s and F-35s also train here. Visitors may see Canadian CT-114 Tutors or Belgian F-16s. Since 2018, non-UK aircraft need special permission to use the loop. Plane spotters gather at Llyn y Tri Greyenyn car park. From there they watch combat jets fly past at low altitude. The loop is one of the few places where visitors can see such flying so closely. The valleys provide dramatic backdrops for photography. Rain clouds often gather above, adding to the scene.