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19 - 20 - 21 June - Porto
ARC – Air Race Championship is an international air racing platform founded in Portugal in 2014, created to revive the spirit of air racing following the end of iconic competitions such as the Red Bull Air Race and the Reno Air Races.
Since its first presentation in Cascais, ARC has spent more than a decade developing its concept through training, demonstrations, technical preparation and strategic partnerships.
Inspired by the legacy of the world’s greatest air racing competitions, ARC is building a modern platform focused on performance, innovation, safety and long-term sustainability.
Today, ARC is preparing the foundations for a future European Air Race Championship, bringing together elite pilots, aircraft, technical teams and operational expertise to shape the next chapter of air racing.
ARC brings together highly experienced pilots in a motorsport that combines speed, precision, discipline and technical excellence.
Flying high-performance racing aircraft, pilots navigate low-altitude courses defined by inflatable Air Gates, reaching speeds of over 370 km/h and experiencing forces of up to 12G.
Designed to be visually powerful and technically demanding, ARC can take place in iconic urban or natural locations, delivering a thrilling and accessible aviation experience for audiences.
The objective of an air race is to challenge pilots and aircraft to perform at the highest level, combining speed, precision and control.
Pilots must complete a demanding aerial course in the shortest possible time, while flying through the Air Gates with accuracy and strictly following the competition rules.
Complete the course, defined by inflatable Air Gates, in the shortest possible time while maintaining full control of the aircraft throughout every section of the track.
As an innovative feature, ARC introduces a new competition format where two pilots race simultaneously on parallel and independent circuits. Both compete for the fastest time, creating a more intense and direct competitive dynamic.
Currently in development, this format promises to elevate the level of competition and deliver an even more immersive experience for audiences, with greater adrenaline, excitement, and real-time spectacle.
Since its beginning, ARC demonstrations have taken place in visually striking urban locations, transforming cities into true stages for aerial competition.
This proximity to the audience creates an immersive experience, allowing spectators to follow the action from multiple angles while the three-dimensional circuit keeps the spectacle thrilling from start to finish.
Air racing dates back to the early 20th century, evolving over time into the modern format seen today.
ARC stands out by combining speed with precision and technical control, as pilots navigate low-altitude courses through inflatable Air Gates while executing demanding maneuvers, creating a truly unique and innovative competition.
Speed is one of the defining elements of ARC, with aircraft reaching well over 370 km/h.
But it’s not just about speed — it’s about extreme precision. Pilots must navigate narrow Air Gates and execute technical maneuvers under intense pressure, where even the smallest mistake can compromise the final result.
The aircraft used in ARC are specially designed for this type of competition, standing out for their lightweight construction, agility, and performance.
Advanced materials and continuous technological evolution allow for exceptional efficiency, while even the smallest technical adjustments can make a decisive difference in overall performance.
Recent demonstrations in Portugal have shown a significant increase in public engagement with ARC.
More and more spectators are following the races and activities closely, reflecting the growing excitement surrounding the championship. This strong audience response reinforces ARC’s presence in the country and highlights its ability to captivate new audiences and build lasting recognition.
In recent years, ARC has been steadily growing its presence in Portugal through aerial demonstrations held in several cities.
These events bring audiences closer to the competition, showcasing the speed, precision, and skill of the pilots while strengthening the championship’s visibility and recognition.
Supported by growing public interest and media attention, ARC is now preparing for European expansion by connecting with some of the continent’s leading aviation events, positioning itself as one of Europe’s most exciting and innovative air racing competitions.
Beyond the pilots, ARC also brings together team managers, technical crews, and operational staff — all essential to the intensity of the competition.
Their stories, rivalries, resilience, and pursuit of excellence will become part of the championship’s narrative, giving audiences a deeper connection to the sport.
Exclusive behind-the-scenes content will soon offer fans an inside look into the world of ARC, revealing everything that happens beyond the race course and creating an even more immersive experience.
