Aviation Articles

Inverted Frisbee in the Extra 330SC

Welcome 2026

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, January/February 2026 issue. Announcing my final term as IAC President, chapter traditions like the Bozo and Platypus awards, Rob Holland's Hall of Fame induction, and Nationals 2025 recap.

Tragedy in Fort Morgan, Colorado

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, November/December 2025 issue. Reflecting on the Fort Morgan accident, incident response planning, post-contest paperwork requirements, and the proposed sixth category.

Fuzz Machine: My Extra 330SC

A tribute to my beloved Extra 330SC aerobatic aircraft

2025 Contest Season in Full Swing

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, September/October 2025 issue. Coaching tips for making aerobatics easier, 2025 Non-Flying Award recipients, article swap with Academy of Model Aeronautics, and thoughts on estate planning.

The Ghost Ship: My MX Aircraft MX-S

Introducing my new MX Aircraft MX-S aerobatic aircraft

Remembering Rob Holland

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, July/August 2025 issue. A personal tribute to Rob Holland, reflecting on his life as a pilot, teammate, IAC Vice President, and friend.

About Aerobatic Waivers

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, May/June 2025 issue. A practical guide to aerobatic waivers covering common questions about VORs, airways, airport managers, noise complaints, and ground access.

Spring is Here

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, March/April 2025 issue. Announcing the dues increase to $75/year, reduced sanction fees, farewell to Lorrie Penner, and welcome to new editor Taylor Mershon.

Hall Bulldog in the Press: 1931-1932 Newspaper Coverage

A chronological collection of newspaper clippings documenting the Hall Bulldog's development and racing career, from Bob Hall's departure from Granville Brothers through the 1932 Thompson Trophy Race.

Hall Bulldog Takeoff Footage

Rare animated footage of the Hall Bulldog taking off at Cleveland during the 1932 National Air Races, digitized from period newsreel film.

WAC 2026 in New York

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, January/February 2025 issue. Announcing the 2026 World Aerobatic Championships in New York, Fall Board meeting recap, and a detailed analysis of IAC dues and budget.

My Awards and Honors

A look at my aerobatic competition career highlights and achievements

Third Term Begins

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, November/December 2024 issue. Celebrating Linda Meyers as Hall of Fame inductee, Nationals recap, and a comprehensive overview of IAC programs and volunteer opportunities.

Thank You or So Long?

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, September/October 2024 issue. Reflections on the IAC election, the magazine's financial challenges, and a proposal for new aerobatic figures called "Drivers."

Bob Hall's Flight Log: Summer of 1932

A transcription of Bob Hall's flight log entries from the summer of 1932, documenting test flights in the Hall Cicada and the historic first flight of the Hall Bulldog

Notes from Premo Galletti: A Day-by-Day Account of the Hall Bulldog

Handwritten notes documenting the daily events at Springfield Aircraft Co. during the Hall Bulldog's final construction and testing, August 14-28, 1932—including Russell Thaw's dramatic rejection of the aircraft

About Rolling Turns

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, July/August 2024 issue. Tips for flying rolling turns in aerobatic competition, from preparation drills to execution techniques.

The Robert E Barnstead Photo Collection

A collection of period photographs from the 1932 Cleveland Air Races, including rare images of the Hall Bulldog and Gee Bee racing aircraft, courtesy of the Barnstead family via Steve Rush.

New Executive Director and Governance Updates

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, May/June 2024 issue. Welcoming Tim Dahnke as Executive Director, tech inspection changes, and an overview of IAC governance.

Looking Ahead to 2024

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, March/April 2024 issue. The departure of Steve Kurtzahn, the future of Sport Aerobatics magazine, and reflections on coaching Team USA.

Hall Bulldog Photo Timeline

A chronological collection of period photographs documenting the Hall Bulldog's 1932 racing season, from construction at Bowles Agawam Airport to the Cleveland National Air Races.

Judging is Hard

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, January/February 2024 issue. A deep dive into the challenges of aerobatic judging, particularly when it comes to assessing roll errors accurately.

Hall of Fame Inductee Lew Shattuck and New IAC Website

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, November/December 2023 issue. Celebrating Hall of Fame inductee Lew Shattuck, unveiling the new IAC website, and ways to sustain the organization.

The Sweepback Controversy

Examining the evidence for and against the Hall Bulldog's swept wing design, including 3D model analysis, wing shadow comparisons, and a response to historian Mike Kusenda's 'Sweepback Enigma'

I'm Just Ken

At the 2023 IAC National Aerobatic Championships, we dressed up as Ken from the Barbie movie. My dad drove up from Oklahoma and didn't even ask about the blonde wig.

Remembering Nikolai Timofeev and Working Within Limits

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, September/October 2023 issue. A tribute to coach Nikolai Timofeev, advice on training within your limits, and updates on the new IAC website.

FCS Podcast: Coach and Coachee with Olivier Masurel

Jim Bourke and his coach Olivier Masurel join the FCS Podcast to discuss their coaching relationship and preparing for the US Nationals.

Success in Borrego and Team USA Update

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, July/August 2023 issue. Celebrating IAC Chapter 36's amazing growth, the USA Advanced Team camp, helmet alternatives, and tech inspection clarifications.

Incredible Aerobatics in the Extra 330 - Oregon Airshow 2023

Video of Jim Bourke flying the Extra 330SC at the 2023 Oregon Airshow Friday twilight show

International Aerobatics Day and Judge Program Updates

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, May/June 2023 issue. Celebrating the third annual International Aerobatics Day, new judge titles, and guidance for Chief Judges and Juries.

Hall Bulldog 3D Modeling: Final Report

Final comprehensive report from Mirco Pecorari of Aircraft Studio Design documenting the complete Hall Bulldog 3D model with paint scheme and weathering

Hall Bulldog Project Check-in - May 2023

Latest update on The Hall Bulldog Project's ongoing efforts to document and revive Bob Hall's 1932 racing aircraft

Hall Bulldog 3D Modeling: Refined Details

Report 4 from Mirco Pecorari of Aircraft Studio Design documenting the integration of CAD engineering with the 3D model, and modeling of the empennage and engine

Safety Checks and Tech Inspection Changes

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, March/April 2023 issue. Updates on safety checks, the new tech inspection process, and safety advice for Chief Judges.

International Aerobatics Day

Originally published by the National Association of Flight Instructors. Celebrating International Aerobatics Day - a day to promote, experience, and share the joys of aerobatic flight on the 4th Saturday of every June.

Hall Bulldog Wing Shape Revisions - January 2023

Kevin Kimball's engineering update incorporating Mirco Pecorari's refined 3D surface model, including wing leading edge corrections, strut fitting angle changes, and dihedral adjustments.

The Pratt & Whitney R-1340 Wasp: Engine of the Hall Bulldog

Comprehensive specifications for the Pratt & Whitney R-1340 Wasp engine family, including the T1D1 variant used in the Hall Bulldog and Gee Bee R1

2023 Preview and Fall Board Meeting

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, January/February 2023 issue. Looking ahead to 2023 with news from the IAC Fall Board meeting, CIVA Plenary, and the new Primary Glider category.

Hall Bulldog 3D Modeling: Building and Validating the Model

Report 3 from Mirco Pecorari of Aircraft Studio Design documenting the 3D modeling process and validation against historical photos

Roll Drills and Sequence Committee

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, November 2022 issue. Sharing roll training drills developed over years of practice, and discussing how the IAC Sequence Committee works.

Roll Drills

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, November 2022 issue. Four practical drills to help aerobatic pilots improve their competition rolls, from half rolls to super slow rolls.

Dues Increase and Aerosports Insights

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, September 2022 issue. Announcing the IAC dues increase, insights from the NAA Aerosports Conference, and a visit to the Pitts Museum.

Hall Bulldog Period Drawings

Original engineering and construction drawings of the Hall Bulldog from 1932-1933, including Bradford wing drawings and Primo Galletti 3-views created during or shortly after the aircraft's brief racing career

In Memory of Marianne Fox

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, July 2022 issue. Remembering Marianne Fox - a fierce competitor, successful businesswoman, and wonderful partner who inspired so many.

Roll Trainer: Test Your Aerobatic Judging Skills

Hall Bulldog 3D Modeling: Pictures Analysis and 2D Views

Report 1 from Mirco Pecorari of Aircraft Studio Design documenting the initial analysis of historical photos and creation of 2D drawings for the Hall Bulldog replica project

Robert 'Bob' Hall: From Gee Bee to Grumman

The remarkable career of Robert Leicester Hall, who designed the Gee Bee Z and Hall Bulldog racers before becoming Grumman's chief engineer responsible for the Hellcat, Avenger, and other iconic WWII aircraft

IAC Governance

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, March 2022 issue. An introduction to how the International Aerobatic Club is structured and governed, including the board, bylaws, and policies.

The Hall Bulldog Project Logos

Official logos for The Hall Bulldog Project - available in white and black versions with downloadable source files

Understanding Rules Deviations

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, January/February 2022 issue. How contest directors can use the IAC's Rules Deviations process to customize contests while maintaining fairness and safety.

Springfield Aircraft Company: The 1932 Logo

The original logo of Bob Hall's Springfield Aircraft Company, featuring a stylized radial engine and gull wing design that captured the spirit of 1930s air racing

Hall Bulldog Aileron Linkage and Fuselage Frame Design - November 2021

Kevin Kimball's detailed engineering update covering the Hall Bulldog aileron control system design with strap hinges, bell cranks, and the parametric fuselage tube frame model.

FCS Podcast: IAC Board Meeting Discussion

Jim Bourke returns to the FCS Podcast to discuss the fall IAC board meeting and the reasoning behind some controversial decisions.

Stressful Coexistence

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, November 2021 issue. Understanding the stress of competition aerobatics, learning from French training methods, and examining the US aerobatic system.

One Year as IAC President

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, September 2021 issue. Reflecting on the first year as IAC President, membership growth, National Aerobatics Day success, and looking ahead.

Hall Bulldog Strut Fitting FEA Analysis - August 2021

Kevin Kimball's Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of the Hall Bulldog wing strut fittings, validating the structural design under expected flight loads.

Hall Bulldog Project Update - August 2021

Project update on The Hall Bulldog Project's progress in documenting and reviving Bob Hall's 1932 racing aircraft

Hall Bulldog Landing Gear Design Study - July 2021

Kevin Kimball's comparative study of landing gear options for the Hall Bulldog replica, examining Jenkins-style and Stinson SR-style gear configurations.

How to Promote Contests and Bring in Spectators

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, July 2021 issue. Debunking the myth about advertising contests, practical tips for promotion, and updates on Airventure 2021.

National Aerobatics Day and Glider Aerobatics

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, May 2021 issue. Celebrating National Aerobatics Day, the benefits of glider aerobatics training, and chapter leader roundtable updates.

Hall Bulldog CAD Modeling Progress - May 2021

Kevin Kimball's CAD screenshots showing the Hall Bulldog wing component design, including CNC router-ready nose rib patterns and detailed rib layouts.

Hall Bulldog Wing Construction Progress - March 2021

Kevin Kimball's progress photos showing the Hall Bulldog wing structural design and construction, including the wood rib structure, spars, and internal framework.

Changes, Curiosity, and National Aerobatics Day

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, March 2021 issue. Updates on the IAC Judge and Rules programs, the importance of curiosity in aerobatics, and announcing National Aerobatics Day.

IAC Announces National Aerobatics Day!

EAA Webinar: Freestyle Aerobatics

My approach to freestyle aerobatic competition, with tips for aspiring freestyle pilots and a breakdown of my award-winning routine.

Plane Tracking Camera Project

Building an automated camera system that tracks my aerobatic flights from the ground

Interview with Eric Hall

Jim Bourke and Matthew Lawlor interview Eric Hall, son of aircraft designer Bob Hall, with personal stories about his famous father

EAA Webinar: U.S. Unlimited Aerobatic Team

My journey rising through the ranks to become a U.S. Unlimited Aerobatic Team member, from regional contests to world championships.

IAC Governance FAQs

Originally written for distribution to IAC members. Frequently asked questions about International Aerobatic Club governance, board operations, bylaws, and how decisions are made.

IAC Sanctioning FAQ

Originally written for distribution to IAC members. Frequently asked questions about IAC contest sanctioning, rule deviations, jury operations, and contest requirements.

Great Things Going On

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, January/February 2021 issue. A roundup of exciting IAC developments including new awards, the 2021 Nationals, and volunteer accomplishments.

EAA Webinar: How to Prepare for an Unknown Aerobatic Sequence

Preparation strategies for unpublished sequences in Intermediate, Advanced, and Unlimited aerobatic competition.

Internal Growth and Outward Change

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, December 2020 issue. Advice on growing IAC chapters and announcement of the magazine's new bi-monthly schedule.

Interview with Josh Trevisiol

Josh Trevisiol shares his perspective on The Hall Bulldog Project and the effort to revive Bob Hall's 1932 racing aircraft

EAA Webinar: How to Read and Call an Aerobatic Sequence

Learn to interpret Aresti diagrams and the terminology for reading aerobatic sequences aloud. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.

Supporting the IAC Through Challenging Times

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, November 2020 issue. A look at the IAC's financial situation during the pandemic and how members can help through donations and volunteering.

EAA Webinar: Your First Aerobatic Airplane

Choosing the right aerobatic aircraft for beginners - balancing capability without overwhelming new pilots.

A Year of Opportunities

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, October 2020 issue. Finding opportunities during challenging times - from aerobatic contests to mentoring new pilots.

EAA Webinar: Behind the Visor - Flying Aerobatics

In this EAA webinar, I discuss how I entered aerobatics and turned my passion for flight into a career.

Pratt & Whitney Engine Installation Report

Original 1932 Pratt & Whitney installation reports for the Hall Bulldog's Wasp T3D1 engine, preserved through 1981 correspondence with aviation historian Michael Kusenda

Hall Bulldog Rudder Pedals

Original Springfield Aircraft Company engineering drawing of the Hall Bulldog rudder pedals with dimensional information and downloadable 3D model

A Timeline of Hall Bulldog Drawings

A chronological collection of Hall Bulldog 3-view drawings from 1933 to 2006, documenting how different artists interpreted this remarkable racing aircraft over the decades

Your Passion and Ideas — Put Them to Work

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine, September 2020 issue. Reflections on taking over as IAC President during the pandemic, the importance of flying clubs, and new achievement awards.

Interview with Matthew Lawlor

Project historian Matthew Lawlor discusses the history of Bowles Agawam Airport and his research into the Hall Bulldog

Interview with Kevin Kimball

Kevin Kimball discusses his experience building the Gee Bee Z, an earlier Bob Hall design, and shares insights into Hall's engineering approach

Hall Bulldog Teaser Trailer

The official teaser trailer introducing The Hall Bulldog Project - an ambitious effort to document and revive Bob Hall's legendary 1932 racing aircraft

Thank You From Jim Bourke on Being Inducted into the Model Aviation Hall of Fame

Mike Kusenda's Hall Bulldog Talk at SARH

Notes and audio from Mike Kusenda's presentation on the Hall Bulldog to the Society of Air Racing Historians, covering the aircraft's development, flight testing, and fate

Jim Bourke Elected IAC President

MotionCrop: Stabilizing Aircraft Video Footage

You Just Got Your Pilot's License - Now What?

Originally published in Sport Aviation magazine, co-authored with Marianne Fox. Ideas and inspiration for new pilots on what to do after earning your certificate, from cross-country trips to aerobatics.

Your First Aerobatic Airplane

Originally published in Sport Aviation magazine, May 2020 issue. A comprehensive guide to choosing your first aerobatic airplane, covering goals, performance, safety, and practical considerations.

Rules No One Likes to Follow

Originally published in Sport Aerobatics magazine. A look at IAC contest rules that are frequently ignored or unevenly applied, and what we might do about them.

Acro FS: An Aerobatic Flight Simulator

Saying Goodbye to Russian Thunder

A bittersweet farewell to my first aerobatic airplane, the Yakovlev Yak-54

Russian Thunder: My First Aerobatic Airplane

The Yakovlev Yak-54 that started my journey into aerobatic airplane ownership

Flying a Giant Scale Model of Russian Thunder

I Wish He Hadn't Done That

The harrowing story of a test flight that nearly ended in disaster - engine failure, white-hot metal, and trees too close for comfort.

Zero Timing Russian Thunder

The extensive restoration that brought my Yak-54 back to factory-new condition

Letters Between Vern Clements and Bob Hall

Historic correspondence between aviation historian Vern Clements and Hall Bulldog designer Bob Hall, confirming design details of the 1932 racer