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 highly technical aerial competition where pilots race specialized aircraft through challenging courses, aiming for championship points across multiple events.
Success depends on a combination of meticulously modified aircraft, adherence to strict safety rules (including speed and G-force limits), and avoiding penalties.
Teams utilize sophisticated software and detailed data analysis to determine optimal flight paths, translating complex technical information into actionable instructions for pilots to achieve the fastest times.
Race safety is enhanced by specially designed frangible Air Gates (pylons) made of lightweight material that collapse harmlessly upon impact and can be quickly repaired.

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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.