IMAC type of flying was a result of how popular the TOC is. The TOC took the best of the F3A world and mixed it with IAC style of flying. It became real popular and IMAC was born. I would also assume the 'Turn around" style of pattern flying that was all the rage in the 80 as a part to play in IMAC.

As some one mentioned, the big difference between pattern and IMAC is the sequences. Pattern is based off of sequences that are model plane specific. IMAC comes straight from the aresti catalog.

Now, as far as the planes are concerned....pattern planes have changed a lot over the years. They use to be speed demons with powerful 2 strokes and long pipes. As the sequences have changed over the years, so have the planes. The trend now is a wide body design with lots of drag. They need the drag to help control down line speed. Pattern planes tend to fly a lot slower these days. Large 4 strokes are the norm, although large 2 strokes are making a strong run, with large props for that breaking disc.

IMAC planes are as you mentioned. For the upper classes, they must be modeled after a full scale aerobat. That could be anything like a Extra, DR 109, Katana, 152 Aerobat, T-craft, Edge, One design....and the list goes on. Now, the trend is large 35 % and 40 % planes because they "PRESENT" well to the judges. Meaning the judges can see them better, therefore the pilots feel they get better scores. You can fly any class in IMAC with a 40 size plane. Size does not matter per the rules. You do need a pilot and a scale dash board or you will get a down grade, but size is not a down grade.

So, get you a plane and jump in.....it is a blast. I've flown one IMAC contest now, with a pattern plane (lol), and I had a real good time. I plan on flying my first pattern contest in a few weeks. I'll check back in on that scene later.....

Pugs