Q: What kind of race is this? I do not fly pylons and am not comfortable flying close to other planes.
A: It is a timed cross-country race. There are no pylons, and race aircraft takeoff individually in fastest to slowest order to fly the race course. A wide range of aircraft and speeds participate in assigned classes.
Q: I am proud of my C-172 and it is as fast as any other C-172, but it is not known as a race plane. How can I compete?
A: You will be put in a class of airplanes with similar airframes and horsepowers, there may even be another C-172 you can compete with. Perhaps you could challenge another C-172 owner to register.
Q: I am not IFR current. Do I need to be current IFR?
A: This is a Day-VFR race, no Instrument Rating is required. We have many pilots from Sport to ATP (even a retired Astronaut) and many aircraft with no instrument capabilities.
Q: Has the race ever been delayed or cancelled because of weather?
A: In the race history, there has been multiple delays. In 2016, the race was held at a turn point due to weather at the finish line. The racers landed, re-briefed, and when weather cleared the race resumed to the finish line.
Q: I worry about the bigger and faster planes flying around me. How do I stay safe?
A: Safety is the largest priority of the race. The classes of aircraft are started from the fastest to slowest to minimize overtaking. The required Pre-Race Briefing includes overtaking procedures.
Q: How high do we need to fly? I do not have oxygen available.
A: Choice of altitudes is up to the pilot, based upon wind and weather. FAA VFR regulations are in force for all aircraft. Most Classes fly within a similar altitude range, but it is not required. Minimum altitude is per FAA Minimum Safe Altitude regulations.
Q: How do we handle MOA’s, Restricted and Prohibited Airspace?
A: The Course is laid-out to avoid restricted and prohibited areas. NOTAMS are issued for the race, and the controlling agencies as well as users of MOAs are aware of our race. The Course is also reviewed and approved by the FAA.
Q: What if I have mechanical difficulties before or during the race?
A: There is limited assistance from our volunteer mechanic before and during the race. A race frequency will be monitored during the race if a diversion or forced landing is required, volunteers and/or other race participants will track and follow-up on any aircraft requiring assistance.
Q: Why is the Finish Line not in Oshkosh?
A: In its early history, it was, but growing participation and greater levels of congestion and concerns about safety at AirVenture caused it to be moved many years ago. Most participants go on to Oshkosh following the race, but individually and following published arrival procedures.
Q: I just got a new paint job. How can I show this off at AirVenture?
A: All participants are eligible (but not required) to park on the show line near the AirVenture Cup Booth. Sorry but this is a no-camping area.
Q: Have there ever been any accidents or fatalities associated with this race?
A: We have a 100% safety record in all our years racing. There have been no accidents or incidents while participating in AirVenture Cup activities.
Q: How soon do I need to sign-up?
A: Sign-up is now underway. The deadline for application paperwork is June 1 of the race year.
Q: After I register, what do I need to do besides “show up”?
A: Following registration, you will receive an email with a PDF document package. This needs to be signed and sent to EAA, specific directions will be sent in the email. Race numbers will be assigned and need to be affixed to your A/C of a certain size and location. If you have any specific request, you can forward for consideration by race officials.
Q: What do I need for the race?
A: You will need to show your certificate(s) and medical. In addition, you will need to present your logbook entries showing the airplane is in annual inspection and all required checks (Pitot static, transponder, altimeter, AD compliance, and ELT) will be current at time of race.
Q: What if I am unable to participate after I register?
A: We have a 100% refund policy if you cannot make it to the race for any reason. We do this because we don’t want pilots forcing bad weather or mechanical decisions to make it to the starting line of the race since they have already paid. Refunds are available until check-in at the starting line upon your arrival at the starting line.