Air Race aircraft have to be extremely stable. In a steep turn, both pilot and aircraft are subjected to forces of up to 10G, meaning they are ten times their normal weight. In principle the plane should also be as light as possible, and not just because of the high G-forces. Modern aircraft seldom weigh more than 600 kilos because they are constructed of extremely light but highly stiff composite materials, such as carbon fiber. Their light weight combined with a highly efficient steering system results in an agility that normal aircraft, even modern fighter jets, can’t begin to match.
Among the few aircraft that are suitable for racing, there are differences in engine power and flying performance that can have an important influence on the pilot’s chances of winning. The Zivko Edge 540 is currently considered the best: with a top speed of 426 kph and a weight of only 530 kilograms, it can withstand forces of up to 15G. This was the plane in which Mike Mangold won five out of seven races in the 2005 World Series.
Red Bull Adrift
