Overview

In recent years it seems as though "pattern" models have taken a back seat to the more popular "3D" airplanes seen at club fields everywhere. It's easy to understand why. The latest "3D" aircraft are capable of exciting, almost unrealistic maneuvers, and that is very appealing to a lot of people. Pattern airplanes are also known as "Precision Aerobatic Aircraft" and fly with more precision and grace. The Academy of Model Aeronautics defines the sequences of maneuvers that these airplanes must fly in organized competitions here in the United States. The F.A.I. (Federation Aeronautique Internationale) defines the maneuver schedules for international competition. It is interesting to note that many of today's top "3D" pilots also compete in pattern at either the National or International level.

Sequence diagrams courtesy of Rick Wallace - V.P. / NSRCA D1:

Sportsman (401)
Intermediate (402)

Contests:

NSRCA District 1 Contest Schedule

AMA / F.A.I. F3a Pattern Links:

National Society of Radio Controlled Aerobatics
NSRCA District 1 Web Site
Bob Pastorello's Pattern Site
Ed's R/C Pattern Page
www.geistware.com