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IS
IT A DANGEROUS SPORT?
By it's very nature,
aerobatics involves risks that are not involved in non-aerobatic flight;
but, as with other aviation activities, it is only as safe or dangerous
as the pilot makes it. Discipline, planning, common sense, and
knowledge are the basic prerequisites to safety. Aerobatics can be
quite safe if safety rules are followed religiously:
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First and foremost, get
proper aerobatic and emergency situation training.
The IAC maintains a list of schools
offering emergency maneuver and aerobatic training.
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Never fly aerobatics in
aircraft not approved for aerobatic flight.
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Fly at a safe and
conservative altitude.
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Know your equipment and
it's limitations. Keep the aircraft well-maintained.
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Know yourself and your
own personal limitations (altitude limits, g-limits, flight
durations, health, etc.)
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Always perform a proper,
thorough aerobatic preflight.
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Stay current and take
recurrency check rides.
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Stay clear of
conflicting air traffic.
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Always leave yourself a
way out.
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Always wear a parachute.
Know how to bail out and how to use it.
Aerobatics is for the
sensible pilot who seeks proficiency, precision, and control in their
flying skills. Practice produces control. The attitude that guides
control is what separates reckless fools from aerobatic artists.
Aerobatic pilots understand their machine as well as its limitations and
they recognize their own personal capabilities. Control is what
everyone, from World Aerobatic Champion competitors to air show heroes,
is looking for.
WILL I
FEEL SICK?
Aerobatics entails forces and
visual situations that are new to just about everyone. Each person
will respond differently to these. Typically, on your first few
flights you may feel queasy after some number of maneuvers. With
each flight, your tolerance will build. Don't let the initial
discomfort discourage you. The more often you practice, the higher
your tolerance will become. As you get used to unusual attitudes
in your aircraft, the exhilaration and fun begins to dominate.
Loops, rolls, and spins can be habit- forming. Hammerheads, Cuban
8's and snap rolls can be addicting. Gradually, one becomes
determined to make the loops a more perfect circle, the rolls more true,
and to predetermine the exit points of a spin.
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