Agency Issues Official Accreditation Letters For the Multi-Class Competition

Despite recent controversies, the Federal Aviation Administration has given its official approval for the National Championship Air Races to continue, issuing accreditation letters that extend through August 31, 2027. The move allows organizers to move forward with the event’s highly anticipated relaunch in Roswell, New Mexico, this year.

The FAA’s decision followed a full review of NCAR’s application, new course layouts, and pilot performance during May’s Pylon Racing Seminar: the annual training program required for competitors. Five of the seven racing classes have received full clearance. Pilots who completed the seminar are already certified, while those who missed it will attend an additional pre-race session to meet the same training and safety requirements.

"This accreditation underscores the strength of our long-standing partnerships with the race classes and the FAA who are committed to producing an event that meets and exceeds the highest standards of safety and performance," expressed Fred Telling, CEO and Chairman of the Board of the Reno Air Racing Association (RARA). “We're pleased to have received full FAA approval across our operations and look forward to showcasing the very best of air racing once again.”

Tony Logoteta, President and COO of RARA, added that he is “particularly pleased to acknowledge the return of the Biplane Class under the leadership of class president Scott Thomson to our September Family.”

The Pylon Racing Seminar — sometimes informally called “Rookie School” — remains a critical part of keeping the event safe. It provides hands-on training for pilots in the demanding environment of high-speed, low-altitude pylon racing, a discipline where precision and consistency are as important as horsepower.

When the races return in 2025, fans can expect the full slate: multi-class pylon racing, STOL Drag, aerobatic performances, and aviation attractions that have long defined the event. With accreditation in place, organizers say NCAR remains one of the most professionally run and safest motorsport events in the world.

The paperwork may have taken time, but the outcome is a little clearer — the National Championship Air Races are officially cleared for takeoff in Roswell.

FMI: www.airrace.org