by Shad Coulson, IAC 440759
As I write this, we just getting ready to start AirVenture 2025 and are a little more than two months away from the first day of competition at the 2025 U.S. Aerobatic Nationals. It is hard to believe a year has already gone by so quickly. As the summer comes to an end, the volunteers who have been working tirelessly for many months are excited to welcome you back to Salina, Kansas.
If you are planning to attend the contest, either as a volunteer or competitor, please register ASAP. Your registration plays a vital role in several of our planning purposes, most notably would be the construct of the schedule. It is hard to estimate the duration of a category without knowing the expected level of participation. Finally, competitors are only able to secure their official practice slot after their registration and payment are made. More to come very soon on the payment process, but please register if you’re planning to attend.
I would also encourage those planning to attend, and who have not yet secured hotel reservations, to do so quickly. Hotel accommodations in the area are limited due to other events occurring in Salina during this period. The negotiated room rates and block holds expire on Aug 14th. Information on discounted hotel rates can be found on the Nationals webpage. Competitors are encouraged to check the Nationals webpage for updates regularly. The webpage also has useful documents attached to include the contest bulletins (bulletin #2 coming soon), new min fuel waiver, and tech inspection forms.
Speaking of industry partners, the U.S. Nationals would not be possible without their continued support, and we are excited to have a few of them attending nationals this year. Extra, Aura Aero, GameBird and Lift Aviation will all be present…you may even catch a glimpse of a new airplane or two. Fundraising for the contest continues and is critical to our efforts of creating an unforgettable experience for participants and spectators alike. Donations play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event, from organizing the logistics to providing the necessary resources for the participants to shine in their respective categories. If you or an organization you are involved with would like to support the U.S. Nationals, please contact me.
I hope you have all had a wonderful summer spent amongst family and friends, maybe even attended a contest or two. For those of you returning to Salina, I look forward to seeing you again. For those of you attending for the first time, I look forward to meeting you and our volunteers look forward to supporting you any way we can. Travel safe and we’ll see you all in Salina soon!
Shad Coulson
Contest Director
