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 aerial competition where pilots navigate complex courses through Air Gates, vying for championship points in races often decided by fractions of a second under strict rules regarding speed and G-forces.
Winning relies on specialized, highly modified aerobatic airplanes and extensive team collaboration, using advanced data analysis and proprietary software to optimize flight paths and make precise, often subtle, adjustments.
The sport prioritizes safety, having evolved with stringent regulations and innovative equipment like easily replaceable, inflatable pylons designed to shatter harmlessly upon impact, preventing aircraft damage.

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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.