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Radio Control Soaring

League of silent flight logo
07/19/2025 to 07/27/2025
Flying Site: 
4 and 5

For detailed information see the IAC Calendar.

RC Soaring is flown by different classes of sailplanes or gliders.  These aircraft are towed aloft by 12-volt electric winches.  They have no other form of propulsion.  The winches have a great deal of power and, depending on the aircraft, a launch height of 500 to 600 feet can be obtained.  Competitors fly in rounds.  Each round has a different task associated with it, and each has a flight task and a landing task.  Most flight tasks are based on some form of precision flight time (seven minutes, plus or minus, from the time of winch line disconnect to contact with the ground). The closer the landing is made to the target time, the more points are awarded.  Landing targets an exact spot; the closer to the spot, the more points gained.  Typically, 10 sailplanes will launch at the same time.  Sailplane classes are divided by the size of the aircraft. Smaller aircraft can fly in classes allowing larger aircraft.  The winner is determined by the total number of points obtained.

 

The first day of soaring competition is at an off-site location.

Nats News

July 25, 2020: RC Soaring F3Res

By Ryan Woebkenberg

Friday is the F3Res portion of the 2020 RC Soaring Nats. Only 8 pilots were present, but we think COVID-19 hurt turnout. F3Res is an event for wood two-meter wingspan rudder/elevator/spoiler (RES) control. Launches are made via identical, specific high starts. Tasks are 6 minutes with a generous landing tape.

See all 2020 RC Soaring Nats coverage HERE.

2020 Outdoor Nats to Proceed as Scheduled

After careful deliberation, the AMA Executive Council has agreed to not cancel the 2020 Outdoor Nats. This decision is aligned with state and federal guidelines for events concerning COVID-19.

The 2020 AMA Nats will take place to the extent that individual Nats organizers plan and conduct their respective events. Additional safety measures will be in place to protect our members, staff, and community. Nats participants and visitors to the International Aeromdeling Center will have limited access to AMA facilities and should anticipate a scaled-back Nats experience.