Competition/Technical The 2026 Nats
Marking a milestone year, 2026 brings us the 100th running of the AMA Nats! This is separate from the 2023 celebration that commemorated 100 years since the first Nats event—the historic Mulvihill rubber-powered Free Flight (FF) contest—which began in 1923 and is still flown today.
The Nats was paused during World War II between 1942 and 1945, and again because of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, although some events still flew under modified formats that year. Now, with the 2026 season on the horizon, we’re ready to soar into history—and we have special incentives for competitors!
The first 100 preregistered participants will receive a limited-edition commemorative goodie bag that celebrates the 100th running of the Nats. These keepsakes are a piece of aviation history that you won’t want to miss. Early registration secures your place on the flightline and a memento of this historic event.
Winners will also be celebrated in style. There will be gold, silver, and bronze medals given out for first, second, and third places in each event, plus special commemorative items and podium recognition. Don’t wait to claim your spot and be a part of history—2026 promises to be unforgettable!
National Records Take Off Early in 2026
The season is already making headlines, with two AMA Youth Junior National Records set by rising stars from California.
Kiana Lin launched a new Youth Junior National Record in F1Q Electric Power Outdoor FF, posting 19 minutes, 47 seconds. F1Q demands pinpoint motor control, precise trimming, and ultralightweight construction—Kiana nailed it!
Aurelius Lin followed with a record-breaking flight in F1B Wakefield on February 7, clocking 35 minutes, 18 seconds. F1B, one of the premier rubber-powered FF classes, tests skill in design, launch, and reading the air—Aurelius soared to a new standard.
These achievements highlight the talent and dedication of our Youth Junior competitors and set a thrilling tone for the 2026 season. The next generation of fliers is ready to take flight, and we can’t wait to see what comes next!
RC Pylon Racing Rules Updates
Several urgent proposals have been made to ensure safety, fairness, and smooth competition for everyone on the field:
- Course Personnel Protection: Expanding acceptable protective equipment to allow a wider range of effective options.
- AMA 426 Super Sport Quickie Engine Pricing: Raising the maximum retail price from $350 to $400 because of manufacturer cost increases. This was implemented early in 2026 to support competitors and manufacturers.
- Safety Clarification: Updating paragraph 4.2.1 to confirm that “bump caps” are not acceptable for head protection in Pylon Racing, despite American National Standards Institute (ANSI) specifications, and that course officials outside of the safety line do not need helmets.
Expect a historic, record-breaking, and adrenaline-packed year for the 2026 Nats. Preregister, take your spot on the line, and be a part of history. The flight of the century is just beginning—let’s make it unforgettable!
