National Aerobatic Championships Pushed to September 28

The International Aerobatic Club (IAC) has announced a schedule change for the 2025 U.S. National Aerobatic Championships. The event, originally set for September 21-26, will now take place from September 28 to October 3 at Salina Regional Airport (SLN) in Kansas.

The adjustment was made to accommodate the World Advanced Aerobatic Championships in Hungary, which is scheduled for the week prior. By rescheduling, the IAC is giving the overachievers among aerobatic pilots, volunteers, and supporters time to travel, recover, and compete in both events.

The IAC’s U.S. Nationals is a well-established aerobatic competition that allows participants to demonstrate their skills in the Sportsman, Intermediate, Advanced, and Unlimited categories. The event also serves as a key opportunity for pilots to qualify for international competitions and refine their routines under a panel of experienced judges.

The first National Aerobatic Championships were hosted by the Aerobatic Club of America in 1968. The competition structure was transformed to include the modern categories by the IAC in 1970. Twelve years later, the IAC formally took over the event. The organization has since expanded its aerobatic presence by representing the US at the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) Aerobatic Commission, which is the worldwide regulator for the sport.

The 2024 U.S. National Aerobatic Championships, also held in Salina, concluded on September 27 with an awards banquet at the Hilton Garden Inn. The competition crowned champions across multiple categories, with Rob Holland taking first place in the powered Unlimited category and Jason Stephens securing the Unlimited title for the glider division.

“The IAC appreciates the understanding and flexibility of all participants, volunteers, and partners,” a statement from the organization read. “Additional details about the updated schedule, registration, and logistics will be posted on the IAC website in the coming weeks/months.”

FMI: www.iac.org