Muncie, USA: a first-class stage for the 2025 FAI F3A World Championship for Aerobatic Model Aircraft
Competitors at the 2025 FAI F3A World Championship for Aerobatic Model Aircraft enjoyed the first class facilities at the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) National Flying Site in Muncie, Indiana. From 9 to 16 August, 62 model aircraft pilots from across the globe showcased their talents on this exceptional stage.
Nestled in the heart of the US midwest, the Muncie National Flying Site spans over 1,100 acres of meticulously maintained grounds, making it the premier destination for aeromodeling events in the United States. The facility boasts multiple dedicated flying fields, each tailored to different types of model aircraft, providing competitors with world-class conditions to showcase their precision and skill. At the centre of the complex is Flying Site 1, the focal point for the 2025 FAI F3A World Championships this year. This field offers expansive, unobstructed airspace, making it perfect for precision aerobatics. With its paved runways, the site is fully equipped to handle the demands of elite international competitors. FAI President, Greg Principato, was present to open the event.
FAI President, Greg Principato, opened the event
Twenty-three nations were represented at the Opening Ceremony. Of the 62 participants competing, five were juniors, of which the top three were Seth Huntingford of Australia (14 years old) followed by Liu Yufei, China (15 years old) and Sean Galloway, New Zealand (17 years old).
The two title defenders went head to head: in 2023's competition, Finland's Lassi Nurila claimed the gold medal, whereas this year on his home territory, USA's Andre Jesky clinched the top prize with 2968.35 to Nurila's 2918.77. Japan's Tetsuo Ondo was just a few points behind with 2904.72.
Winners' podium
Teams podium
Despite this close-run battle for the top spot, the championship was conducted in an amicable atmosphere with Championship Director Tony Stillman and his team working hard to ensure the smooth-running of the event. Live scoring was available to add to the excitement of the competition.
The international ambience was reflected the diversity of aircraft, equipment and styles and the standard of flying was exceptionally high, with pilots enjoying good weather conditions. Temperatures generally exceeded 30 degrees during the afternoons.
Top junior, Seth Huntingford (Australia)
Final Results
Individual
- Andrew Jesky, USA
- Lassi Nurila, Finland
- Tetsuo Onda, Japan
Team ranking
- USA
- Japan
- Austria
Full results are available here.
The judging team
Images courtesy of organiser/Ronald Brodersen
