Message Drop Event Rules
[As of 07/01/05]

Current year rule changes are in red bold print!

II. Flying Event Rules (continued)

D. Message Drop

1. If possible one drop run should be made using two message drop containers. These containers must comply with the attached specifications. Two targets may be utilized; one located near the approach end of the runway and the other near the departure end. No mechanical or electronic devices may be used for dropping the containers or for calibrating the time of release.

2. Each airplane shall make a normal take-off and climb at least 400 feet before making the first turn. After the run, the same climb out procedure and pattern shall be used. After landing, each airplane must clear the runway as soon as possible. Pilots must refrain from making excessively long downwind legs, thus delaying the competition.

3. A rectangular pattern shall be flown at the recommended traffic pattern altitude for that airport. Power shall be reduced on the downwind leg and the turn onto final approach shall be completed above 300 feet AGL. At no time during the drop run shall the altitude be less than 200 feet above the level of the airport. The drop run shall be made generally into the wind at normal cruising speed. Flaps and landing gear (if applicable) must be fully retracted.

4. Proper spacing in the pattern shall be maintained by each aircraft. If proper spacing cannot be maintained, the overtaking airplane shall make a go-around. No "S" turns or 360 degree turns will be permitted on the downwind leg. Approved methods of obtaining proper spacing are:

(a) extension of the take-off leg, or

(b) slow flight on the downwind leg.

5. Scoring:

(a) The drop run over each target shall be counted whether the container is dropped or not.

(b) The total distance from the drop container to the target will be measured in feet. The lowest total distance for the two containers will determine the winner.

(c) The following maneuvers will result in disqualification:

(1) Failure to drop two containers on drop run.

(2) Low or high airspeed or unusual attitude on drop run.

(3) Altitude less than 200 feet AGL during the drop run.

(4) Irregular pattern, "S" turns, slow flight, or diving during a run.

(5) Any action deemed by the judges to be careless or reckless flying.

(d) The following items will result in penalty shown.

(1) Streamer separation from the message container prior to contact with the ground. [300 points].

(e) The message drop container must conform the specifications listed and/or shown below:

MESSAGE DROP CONTAINER SPECIFICATIONS

CONTAINER BODY: STREAMER:
  • 6" x 1.75" x 1.75"
  • May be constructed of any material.
  • Must be able to contain a 3" x 5" card or similar score sheet.
  • Must be able to seal or close message compartment. Compartment must be able to be readily opened after being dropped. If a cork or other plug is used, it need not be aerodynamically shaped.
  • All deminsions ± .125", unless noted otherwise.
  • Overall weight, with streamer attached and a 3" x 5" card and plug inserted, may not exceed 2.5 oz.
  • May be finished in colors.
  • 30" ± 2" by 2" ± .5" NOT including that part of the ribbon used to attach to the body.
  • Dacron or similar material.
  • Edge may be 'pinked', cut on bias, or sealed to prevent fraying.
  • Attachment may vary.

05/04/97 - Date of last change to this section