competition

AEROBATIC COMPETITION
The competition and air-show sequences (name of the flights), must be flown with split-second timing, precise speed and altitude control, constant calculation for variables such as wind and temperature, and very precise planning on the pilot's part. Any wrong turn, misplaced pullout, and roll in the wrong direction can put the pilot out of the running because of a zero score by the judge.
The competition sequences are flown in an aerobatic zone over the airport commonly called the BOX. The BOX is an area 3300 feet square with the top at 3500 feet. The bottom depends of the level of competency of the individual pilot. Beginners have to fly higher whilst the unlimited pilot is trained to get to the bottom of the BOX. In competition the lower limit is 150 meters. At air shows, the display pilot has his own limits which are approved by the aviation authorities.
 There are 5 acknowledged (FAI/CIVA) levels in aerobatics: Basic  Sportsman  Intermediate  Advanced  Unlimited
Each competition may have between five and nine judges. They are positioned between 150 and 250 meters away from the edge of the box, facing the A-Axis. They declare an official wind parallel to the A-Axis which either blows from their left or right (depending obviously on weather conditions).  Corner judges, or radar tracking device monitor pilots excursions from the box and assign penalties. Penalties are also incurred by flying below the floor (which could lead to disqualification) and above the ceiling (generally not enforced).  Every judge has an assistant who writes down the scores. The judges grade each individual figure as well as how well the sequence is positioned within the BOX.