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Control Line Speed

North American Speed Society
07/06/2025 to 07/11/2025

For detailed information see the IAC Calendar.

The object of this event is simply to fly a prescribed distance at the fastest possible speed.  This is a horsepower and technology event.  The aircraft are small and aerodynamically sophisticated, with specially prepared engines turning very high rpm.  Some have no landing gear, rising out of wheeled “dollies.”  Some are flown on single wires controlled by a torque system, meaning the aircraft’s control surfaces are operated by twisting a wire.  There are several classes that correspond with engine sizes.  Unless noted, there are no restrictions on design; fuel is restricted for most classes.  These high-performance models take a minimalist approach to aerodynamics and are finely tuned pieces of equipment.  Most of the classes involve the use of internal-combustion engines ranging in size from .049 to .60 cubic inch.  Pulse jet engines are used in the advanced classes and have the ability to reach speeds nearing 200 mph

Nats News

June 21, 2021: Control Line Speed

By Warren Gregory

(Photos from the 2019 Nats.)

Greetings to the 22 Control Line Speed fliers who are registered for the 2021 Nationals. Howard Doering was registered this year but will not be here due to health issues. We wish him well.

There are 12 states represented by Control Line Speed contestants this year: Florida, Virginia, Texas, California, New Jersey, Oregon, Ohio, Illinois, Missouri, Utah, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.

2020 Outdoor Nats in Photos

The 2020 Outdoor Nats took place July 12-August 5 at the International Aeromodeling Center in Muncie, Indiana. Although the pandemic made for an interesting and complicated year, several events still took place safely, allowing competitors and AMA members to continue to enjoy our hobby.

We have created a photo gallery for this year's event. Please feel free to like, share, download, and print a few!