RAFFCA Aerobatic Competition 2019
On Saturday the 18th May 2019, RAFFCA will be holding its annual Aerobatic Competition at Sywell Aerdodrome (Northampton). The event is generously supported by the Sir Geofrey de Havilland Flying Foundation and will be hosted by British Aerobatics.
Pilots will be competing for the Tony Ayre Blade, named in memory of Sgt Tony Ayre, who was an enthusiastic aerobatic pilot who won the inaugural RAFFCA event in 2014. Unfortunately he was killed later that same year. Sgt Tony Ayre’s family bequeathed a fully aerobatic Pitts S-2AE, G-PULR, that he was in the middle of building to RAFFCA, which has been named the Spirit of Ayre, thus honouring his enthusiasm for this burgeoning sport within the RAF.
The competitors will fly twice during the day, each flying a choice of three aircraft; Pitts Special, Extra 200 and Firefly.
First flight – Pilots will have the opportunity of a short training flight away from the airfield before returning to fly the sequence in the overhead. This sequence will be judged for training purposes.
Second flight –Â Pilots will fly the sequence in the overhead again but without the training flight beforehand. This flight will be judged in the same way as regular competitions, with a ‘winner’ being crowned.
G-PULR
The spectacular G-PULR, Spirit of Ayres Pitts S2AE will be making her first public appearance at the competition! With the build phase almost complete and engine testing underway it is sure to be a magical moment for all to see. Watch her appearance at RIAT following her paint work completion here:Â https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ew2EMeBlsVA
Entry Requirements
The competition is open to members of RAF Flying Clubs, with each club able to submit one competitor and one reserve.
All pilots must hold a PPL or a LAPL with no prior Aerobatic experience required. All training will be provided to the competitors by highly qualified British Aerobatics instructors.
As this is a RAFFCA competition the entry costs are set as a personal contribution of just £120.
Fly-In
All members and associates of RAFFCA are invited to attend, so, even if you are not participating you are welcome to Fly-In and watch. With a BBQ and refreshments available all day, it will be an entertaining and enjoyable day for all present.
How to apply?
Great news for RAFFCA Members, applying couldn’t be easier. Simply, inform your club OIC or RAFFCA Rep of your interest. All clubs are required to select and nominate their competitor by 30 April 2019 so don’t delay!
Admin orders will be issued by the 6th May 19 and if you need any more information you can contact Sqn Ldr Dave Hall using our Contact Form.
We look forward to seeing you all on the day, and good luck to all entrants.
