Pattern flying is not 3D. Pattern flying is actually known as precision aerobatics. Pattern flying is usually very graceful and free flowing. A predefined set of maneuvers is performed. There are multiple classes, each increasing in difficulty. F3A or FAI is the highest level, which is also the international competition used in major events such as the world championships. Pattern is a wonderful teaching tool no matter what you like to fly. It teaches discipline in your flying which can be applied to almost every other type of flying. If you look at a lot of the top pilots (not all) in about every discipline, including pylon, IMAC, 3D, and helicopter, at some point they partcipated in pattern flying. You can find out a lot more about this type of flying at the website for the special interest group called the NSRCA (National Society of Radio Control Aerobatics. www.nsrca.org

Hope this helps,

Arch Stafford