RCU Forums - Stupid Newbie question

A short explanation might be better than a link to a site that assumes you already know what it is.

Pattern is a type of aerobatic flight (and competition) where a series of known aerobatic maneuvers are flown in a specific sequence, in a specific format, at a specific distance and height, within a defined area of airspace, in front of judges. It is the judges' job to grade the flight maneuvers from 0 to 10, based on the accuracy of execution of each maneuver based on a predetermined layout of what each one should look like. Judging criteria include (but are not limited to) elements such as maneuver centering, height, size, smoothness and grace, and conformance to a specific flight track before, during, and after each maneuver (correcting for wind, etc.).

Based on the pilot's skill level, there are several classes in which to fly, each one progressively more difficult than the others. There are Sportsman (entry level), Intermediate, Advanced, Masters, and FAI classes (you have to be really GOOD to compete here).

The aircraft used typically are specifically designed, built, trimmed, and powered to fly smoothly and with authority through the maneuvers, many of which can be very demanding of power to do properly. As such, the majority of pattern airframe designs look very similar to one another, and many learn very quickly which powerplants work and which don't, so it's common to see similar power setups among them.

That about covers the basics. For more specific info, the NSRCA site has a link to the AMA rulebook, which has a good explanation of the rules and requirements for pattern competition.

Hope this helps.

Rick