Airboss & Air Show Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the primary responsibilities of an Airboss?
An Airboss is the individual who has primary responsibility for the control of air show operations on active taxiways, runways, and the demonstration area [1]. They coordinate with the jurisdictional Air Traffic Control ( ATC) facility and the FAA Inspector-In-Charge (IIC) while the waiver is in effect. Additionally, they are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the daily Participants Safety Briefing [1].
2. What are the different levels of Airboss recognition?
The Air Boss Recognition Program (ABRP) includes three primary tiers of authority:
- Basic Air Boss (BAB): Authorized for "Basic Air Shows" with five or fewer acts.
- Standard Air Boss (SAB): Authorized for both Basic and Standard shows, including ground-based pyrotechnics.
- Recognized Air Boss (RAB): The highest tier, required for "Complex Air Shows" featuring sanctioned military jet teams or tactical demonstrations.
3. How does the FAA categorize aircraft for air shows?
Aircraft are categorized based on performance characteristics:
- Category I: Speeds more than 245 knots.
- Category II: Speeds between 156 and 245 knots.
- Category III: Speeds of 156 knots or less, or a gross takeoff weight of no more than 2,250 pounds.
4. What are the minimum safety distances for spectators?
Standard horizontal distances from the crowd line during aerobatics are 1,500 feet for Category I, 1,000 feet for Category II, and 500 feet for Category III. These may be reduced to 1,200 feet for Category I or 800 feet for Category II if a well-defined show line is essential for pilot orientation.
5. What are the standard weather minimums for a show?
Daytime demonstrations generally require a minimum ceiling of 1 ,500 feet and visibility of 3 statute miles. The IIC can waive this to 1,0 00 feet and 3 miles for Category III aircraft if the operations area is limited to a 2-mile diameter. Night shows require 2,500 feet and 3 miles, which cannot be waived.
6. When is a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) required?
A TFR should be requested if high-speed aerobatics (>200 knots) occur outside of Class B, C, or D airspace. It is also required any time military aircraft or sanctioned military parachute teams are performing. Coordination for a TFR must begin at least 90 days before the event.
7. What is the timeline for applying for an aviation event waiver?
Event organizers must submit FAA Form 7711-2 at least 90 days before the event, though 120 days is recommended. The FSDO must notify the organizer of any discrepancies within 30 days of receipt. Approved waivers must be issued at least 15 days before the event.
8. What is the Airboss's responsibility during an emergency?
The Airboss is the central coordination point and must have an unrestricted view of the flying display area to terminate unsafe performances. During active flying, dedicated rescue resources must be postured to reach any location in the display area within one minute. The Incident Commander must be positioned directly with the Airboss while the waiver is in effect.
9. What are the safety requirements for ground-based pyrotechnics?
The Shooter in Charge (SIC) must brief the exact dimensions and location of the pyro area during the daily safety briefing. Explosive effects should be set up no closer than 500 feet from the crowd line. Participating aircraft are recommended to stay behind the pyro area by 150 feet with a minimum altitude of 200 feet AGL.
10. What is the "Golden Hour"?
The "Golden Hour" refers to the period of normal preparations immediately preceding a performer's scheduled display. FAA policy dictates that aircraft and record inspections should be scheduled to ensure they do not distract or interrupt the performer during this critical window.