Ground School: Aerobatics - FlightAdventures(tm)

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Aerobatics has been described as the most thrilling sport above the earth. The following information is suited for pilots, non-pilots, and airshow fans interested in learning more about the sport of aerobatics. Understanding what's involved with flying routines and knowing a little more about what a performer is doing adds a whole new dimension to watching airshow performances for spectators.

If you have questions about aerobatics, please visit our Forums. Our members represent all levels of aerobatic fanatics from newbie non-flyers to world-class performers, and all are welcome!

Understanding Aresti
The Aerobatic Box (courtesy of FlightXtreme.com)
Piloting the Edge Between Energy and Gravity
G-Force: The 5th Force
Aerobatics and Airshows --COMING SOON--

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Understandng Aresti

The Aresti system of symbols has become the standard for the international aerobatic community. Devised by Jose Louis Aresti in the early 1960's, Aresti symbols are used by pilots to communicate aerobatic maneuvers to other pilots and judges so they can keep track of them.

The system consists of 14 "families" of figures, and within each family are many variations. For example, family 1 consists of 68 types, and family 2 includes 60 variations. Just as you'd imagine, basic figures are combined to create thousands of maneuvers and sequences.

Here are some basic figures from the first 9 families, and a legend that indicates what the general symbols represent. Below them are some current Aresti diagrams from notable airshow performers.

Patty Wagstaff's 2002 Routine

Mike Goulian's 2002 Routine

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