As the subject says. Which type of flying requires a higher power / weight ratio? My understanding is that pattern needs more, is that correct? Probably because of the larger flight regime that is covered. Pattern needs slow and fast, 3D only needs slow and it is easier to optimize the setup for only the one flight condition.

Thanks,
Mark

A lot of 3D flight can be and is done with far less than 1:1 T/W, and you can get through any pattern flight with less than 1:1 T/W.

You really only need a high powered model to fly through Masters and FAI convincingly, but a good pilot could do it with a relatively underpowered model and probably still look good....its all about how you manage the power you have. Most of the time you are not using all the power available, its really there to deal with windy conditions. Flying pattern is all about maintaining energy (speed), you dont want to fly too slow or it will cost you because you have to regain energy somewhere....you can use a lot less throttle if you are good at keeping your energy up (ie: dont overcontrol etc.).

In general though, if you want to fly big and fast like a lot of guys do in FAI, you need a fair bit of poop.....significantly more than it takes to hover the model.