NPPL and Aerobatic competition

[Jay_solo]

Can you take part in amateur aerobatic competitions with NPPL?

[eharding]

Originally Posted by Jay_solo

Can you take part in amateur aerobatic competitions with NPPL?

Yes, you can.

[BackPacker]

In fact, there are even provisions that you can compete (though not win) with a safety pilot on board. Useful if you have a medical restriction that prevents you from flying solo.

[Zulu Alpha]

Several pilots compete on NPPLs.

Why ever not?

ZA

[Cusco]

ZA wrote

Several pilots compete on NPPLs.

Why ever not?

One possible reason might be that as some PPLs who lose their Class 2 medicals revert to the 'lesser' NPPL medical signed off by their GP, the stresses both physical and mental of aerobatic competition might just be too much for the Class 2 failed medical heart condition for example.

I'm still not sure that all GPs are aware of the difference between Aerobatic flying and trundling a HGV around the M25.

And there are likely to be a concentration of spectators not far from the aerobatic box.

Just a theory

Cusco

[eharding]

Originally Posted by Cusco

I'm still not sure that all GPs are aware of the difference between Aerobatic flying and trundling a HGV around the M25.

Indeed, I find punting an aeroplane around the competition box far less stressful than negotiating the M25, even if the Rangie doesn't quite qualify as an HGV.

You should try it.

[Blues&twos]

I have tried both. Driving a wagon doesn't give quite the same adrenaline rush...most of the time. And my lorry wasn't fitted with a vomitometer.

[Jay_solo]

I had asked because of this:

"Aerobatics in powered aircraft

Before entering an aerobatic competition in a powered aircraft , you must first hold a full pilots licence. Types of licence privileges can vary from country to country, but in the UK this is, at minimum, a private pilot licence (Group A aircraft). "

Taken from the British Aerobatics Association website: Training

I noticed they say "full pilots license" and at a minimum a private pilots license. No mention of NPPL, so it got me thinking.

Personally, to grant privileges to dance in the sky to a full PPL holder and not an NPPL holder makes no sense. In aerobatics you're not flying cross country or into IMC. Your flying a light aircraft in a controlled space of air for the competition or recreation. You just need to know how to control your aircraft, something which is taught at both license levels!

[BackPacker]

but in the UK this is, at minimum, a private pilot licence

Good point. I would actually contact the BAeA about this - Jen Buckenham would be your first point of call. You can find her details on the BAeA website.