Over 90 glider and Power pilots are registered to compete in the 2015 US National Aerobatic Championships to be held September 20th – 25th at the North Texas Regional Airport Perrin Field. 18 Advanced pilots have declared their intentions to fly for US Advanced Team selection. The event is sponsored by the International Aerobatic Club, the world’s largest aerobatic club, with the main purpose of promoting and enhancing the safety and enjoyment of aerobatics.

The IAC is quick to point out that Aerobatic is not stunt flying. It is precision flying. It is about the pure freedom of flight in all forms. The routes and maneuvers the pilots take are carefully choreographed and awards are given in a number of categories in both Power and Glider divisions. This competition isn’t about speed or breath taking stunt flying. It is all about gentle, relaxed maneuvers that combine technical skills and art, where both the analytical and intuitive sides of the brain are used.

Pilots must stay within an “Aerobatic Box”. It is a block of air 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) long by 1,000 meters wide. The upper and lower limits of the box are set based on the category a competitor is flying in. The competitor has to stay within the lateral limits of the box and within the height limits. The lower limits of the box are, for safety reasons, strictly enforced. During competition there are boundary judges in place that determine when a competitor leaves the box. Boundary infringement penalties are subtracted from the pilot's overall score.

If you are driving on Hwy 289 this week you will notice an open field on the west side of the highway across from the North Texas Regional Airport. You may even see spectators in lawn chairs grouped together in the field. They are in perfect position to watch the action in the “Aerobatic Box.” If you get a chance, head on out to the NTRA and watch these magnificent men and women flying bold and beautiful flying machines.