Pilot Proficiency

Speed Secrets of the Red Bull Air Race

Pia Bergqvist

Monday, August 14, 2017 at 09:19 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The Red Bull Air Race is a high-speed, precision competition where pilots navigate complex aerial courses in highly modified aircraft, with wins often decided by fractions of a second and strict penalties.
Success is driven by a strong synergy between pilot skill, advanced aircraft engineering (including weight reduction and aerodynamics), and sophisticated data analysis used by teams to optimize flight paths.
The competition emphasizes safety through continuously evolving rules (e.g., speed and G-force limits) and innovative course elements like rapidly repairable, breakaway pylons.

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Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.