FAI recognition in 2015 of the already mature competition formats for Wingsuit Performance Flying and Wingsuit Acrobatics allow competitors to demonstrate their abilities on the world stage.
This format measures the three different performance parameters of a wingsuit pilot (best lift, least drag and best glide ratio) and combines them into a single result. All measurements are carried out using a GPS logging device whilst within the competition window (3000m to 2000m AGL).
Practically this is done over a minimum of three separate skydives using identical equipment, with each skydive dedicated to an individual task:
For the time task, the time spent in the evaluation window counts; the longer you stay in the competition window, the better.
For the distance task, the horizontal distance covered over ground while in the evaluation window counts; the further you fly while in the competition window, the better.
For the speed task, the highest average horizontal speed over ground achieved while in the evaluation window counts; the further you fly in the shortest time while in the competition window, the better.
Pure and complete from a physics perspective, this competition negates any advantage from specific body shapes and seeks to find the best overall wingsuit pilot. It has already immortalized Norwegian Espen Fadnes as the 1st FAI World Cup Winner of Wingsuit Performance Flying in 2015. Espen and many others gave their best to become the 1st World Champion of Wingsuit Performance Flying in November, 2016.
