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CLUB INFORMATION

The Australian Aerobatic Club

The Australian Aerobatic Club (AAC) was formed in 1970. The club was formed to foster interest in the sport by providing opportunities to train and compete. For pilots and non-pilots alike the club also provides opportunities to learn and practice the judging techniques of competition aerobatics.  Archived Club Result History is available on-line.

Aerobatic Competition

Over the years, with advances in aircraft design, an internationally recognised sport has developed:- Competition Aerobatics. The sport should not be confused with the kind of aerobatics seen at airshows, commonly known as 'stunt flying'. Competition aerobatics is a very exacting sport which demands high levels of skill, discipline and concentration on flying. A predetermined sequence of manoeuvres is carried out in a small cube of airspace known as the 'aerobatic box'. Pilots can fly at different levels of competition from Entry Level to Unlimited depending on their level of skill and the performance capabilities of their aircraft.

Aerobatic Aircraft

You will probably gain your initial acrobatic endorsement in a Cessna Aerobat or a Bellanca Citabria/Decathlon. The Decathlon is a high winged monoplane tail wheel aircraft and is probably the most popular aircraft seen in competition up to Intermediate level. At higher levels, the Pitts Special, the Sukhoi, Extra, Yak, Cap  and Laser type of aircraft are used because of their greater performance.

How can I start?

While undergoing training as a student pilot you can request that aerobatics be incorporated as part of your training. A log book endorsement can be inserted into your log book by your instructor who must already be approved to give aerobatic instruction. There are only 5 basic aerobatic manoeuvres. They are loops, rolls, snap rolls (flick rolls), stall turns and spins. These may be individually inserted, but it is a prerequisite that spins be included prior to any other manoeuvres. All other aerobatic manoeuvres are combinations of these 5 basic manoeuvres. This will normally take 5-10 hours. Once you join the club you may then receive further dual and solo instruction from club coaches and judges.

Once you have obtained your basic aerobatic endorsement you will be restricted to performing manoeuvres above 3000 feet above ground level. Members of the AAC can train for a Low Level Aerobatic Endorsement/Waiver which permits them to fly their manoeuvres in certain categories down to lower levels.  The minimum level is 100 metres above ground level.

Contests are held on a regular basis to increase competition experience. A Judge's Home Study Course is available for pilots and aspiring judges.

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