The Rules of the Red Bull Air Race World Championship

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Air Racing is very simple. It involves man, machine, and a clock. However, there are rules in place to even the playing field and ensure the most exciting air racing possible. From precise entry speeds, to when to deploy smoke, and how to pass the pylons, every rule is critical, and one infraction can result in precious time loss or a "Did Not Finish". Take an inside look as Nigel Lamb, Hannes Arch, and race director Steve Jones break down some of the rules and regulations behind the sport.
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About: The Red Bull Air Race World Championship features the world's best pilots in a motorsports competition based on speed, precision and skill. Using the fastest, most agile and lightweight racing planes, Red Bull Air Race pilots navigate a low-level aerial race track made up of air filled pylons, flying at speeds reaching 230mph while withstanding forces of up to 10g. The objective is to complete the course, navigating the 65 feet high specially designed inflatable pylons known as Air Gates in the fastest possible time. Red Bull Air Race pilots must pass between the Air Gates in the correct position taking care not to touch them with their wings. The pilots compete for points at each Red Bull Air Race and the one who accumulates the most at the end of the season is crowned Red Bull Air Race World Champion.
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[@marvinthedestroyer]

All the other rules were explained well, so I'm just curious -- what's the reason for the smoke-on requirement? Is it related to safety? how?

[@ACJ523]

The smoke shows path of flight so that after they have moved away from the position the judges can see the exact flight that they're taking. Basically the same thing skywriters use

[@marvinthedestroyer]

Ah, that makes sense. Thanks!

[@marvinthedestroyer]

Ah, that makes sense. Thanks!

[@Schmevel]

When do the tickets for Las Vegas go on sale? I'm going to drive from Michigan again this year to see it.

[@kehoe210]

What's the music soundtrack

[@johnvandeventer8668]

What about flying too low? Do you get disqualified or two second penalty?

[@juliosunga3530]

the water will decide what penalty ull have

[@MarkoBuha]

1:11 explains what you’re looking for

[@logvg7247]

The over G rule kind of confuses me, like do they have a set G limit on certain maneuvers

[@Gaizhun]

Yeah they have a limit, mainly for safety. If you overdo a turn, you risk your life, and you may damage your aircraft from the g force.

[@NakulDalakoti]

Eh what kind of pilot license is required to participate in this race. Is it requires a commercial pilot license, private pilot license or a simple microlight or light sports license? Just asking?

[@PabloGonzalez-hv3td]

That's a more complicated answer than you might think by virtue they are professional pilots they automatically require a commercial license even though, at least in North America, you or I can fly their identical planes legally with a private license and a high performance endorsement even the aerobatics - just not for money and no aerobatics at that low height without a permit. Their aircraft in unmodified state are commercially available Aerobatic laws are different across the world but don't necessarily require a special license or training unless flying with passengers of course airspace restrictions do apply

[@tysonaldrich9139]

In order to qualify for the Redbull Air Race Series Innorder to qualify to compete in the series a pilot must at minimum have a commercial pilot license, be an active air show pilot, and pass the Redbull Air Race pilot school. At the end of that if they pass then the pilot can compete in the series. I don’t remember if there is a minimum hour requirement but I would not be surprised if there was one

[@WORTHYOURTIME1]

It so hard rules make it more

[@ZdrytchX]

underweight?

[@johnvandeventer8668]

Too light

[@ZdrytchX]

Well I guess you could add detatchable some rocket assists to compensate for light weight upon starting :3

[@katzen3314]

You can't be ascending or descending when you go through some gates- there must be some margin of error.

[@PabloGonzalez-hv3td]

Nope that's why it's precision flying

[@Idkjauahwhhws]

Why is a spoke on thing A RULE? You need your engine to get HOT for the spoke to get on.