Aerobatic manoeuvres, also known as aerobatics, are complex aerial manoeuvres that involve stunts such as rolls, loops, and spins. These manoeuvres have been used for centuries by pilots to show off their skills and challenge themselves.

Early History

The first recorded aerobatic manoeuvres were performed by the Wright Brothers in 1903. They performed a “wingover”, which is a type of loop, and a “barrel roll”. Later, Italian aviator Galvani performed a “wingover” in 1905.

The 1920s: Development of Aerobatic Manoeuvres

In the 1920s, several new aerobatic manoeuvres were developed. These included the loop, barrel roll, and Cuban 8. The Cuban 8 was the first manoeuvre to be officially named and recorded in history. It was developed by pilot Max Heartman and is a combination of two loops and two half rolls.

The 1930s: Popularization of Aerobatic Manoeuvres

In the 1930s, aerobatic manoeuvres became increasingly popular with pilots. They began to use them to show off their skill and challenge themselves. This period saw the development of the “engine stall” manoeuvre, which involves the pilot cutting the engine and allowing the plane to stall. This manoeuvre was popularized by American air show pilot Bill O’Connor.

The 1940s: Expansion of Aerobatic Manoeuvres

The 1940s saw the expansion of aerobatic manoeuvres with the development of more complex manoeuvres. These included the “hammerhead stall”, “corkscrew”, and “inverted flat spin”. The hammerhead stall involves the pilot rapidly climbing and then abruptly stalling the aircraft, while the corkscrew involves the pilot entering a tight spiral dive and then rapidly pulling out of it. The inverted flat spin is an advanced manoeuvre that involves the pilot flipping the plane upside down and then entering a flat spin.

The 1950s: Emergence of Aerobatic Teams

In the 1950s, aerobatic teams began to emerge. These teams consisted of several pilots who performed complex manoeuvres in formation. These teams were popular in airshows and served to further popularize aerobatics.

The Present Day

Aerobatic manoeuvres have been used for centuries by pilots to show off their skill and challenge themselves. From the Wright Brothers’ early wingover to the popular engine stall manoeuvre, aerobatic manoeuvres have come a long way. Today, aerobatic teams and competitions are popular with pilots as they serve to further popularize the art of aerobatics.

At Combat Flights Gippsland, we fly CJ-6A Nanchang warbirds so that you can have the thrill of performing aerobatic manoeuvres while knowing you’re in safe hands in the air. Contact us now to book a flight!