By Mike Pettinella
For Video News Service
“The Olympics of aviation aerobatics” is how Laura Wadhams, Genesee County Department of Public Works commissioner, views the 33rd FAI World Aerobatic Championships that are scheduled for Aug. 24-Sept. 2 at the Genesee County Airport on East Saile Drive.
“The simplest way to describe this event is that it’s essentially the Olympics of aviation aerobatics. Teams from around the world will be coming to the Genesee County Airport to compete. Pilots perform very specific, highly technical flight sequences in front of a panel of judges and are scored on precision, difficulty, execution and overall presentation,” Wadhams said.
Photos Courtesy-World Aerobatic Championships website
Actually, the competitors will be arriving in Batavia around Aug. 18 for registration and practice leading up to Programs 1-4 of the event from Aug. 24-Sept. 1. Program 5 of the competition is slated for Sept. 2, with an awards ceremony and dinner capping things that evening.
This year’s championships is the first one in the United States since 2013. Organizers said Genesee County Airport was selected for its favorable conditions and logistical advantages, including nearby hotels and restaurants. It will lead up to the Wings Over Batavia air show scheduled for Sept. 5-6.
The aerobatic championships are expected to draw 40-60 competitors from around the world and attract 3,000 or more spectators over the 10 days. Competitors include pilots from the United States, Europe, Australia and New Zealand.
Wadhams said pilots strive for an “incredible” degree of precision.
“To the casual observer, some of the routines may look repetitive, but in reality, the scoring is extremely technical,” she said. “Every angle, line, and maneuver is judged. These pilots train extensively for this level of competition.”
She said area residents can expect scheduled aerobatic activity over and around the airport during those 10 days – with all flight activity concentrated within a defined aerobatic “box” north of the airport and conducted in full compliance with FAA safety requirements.
“For our community, this is a unique opportunity to host a true world championship event here in Batavia,” she said. “We’ll be welcoming international teams, judges and visitors to Genesee County, which puts our airport and our community on a global stage. It’s also a strong reflection of the quality of our aviation facilities and operations.”
For more information, go to https://2026wac.com.