Bulletin 1 • Airport Info • FAQs
Bulletin 1
Click to view
Bulletin 2
Click to view
Airport Info
- For pilots: https://airnav.com/airport/mcw
- General: https://flymcw.com/
Weather Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I register for the contest?
A: Fill out and submit the registration form, then follow the instructions on the payment page.
Q: Will we be able to select a registration option that does not include hotel accommodations?
A: Yes. You have the option to register for the contest excluding hotel accommodations. However, because breakfast will be provided at the hotel as part of the hotel accommodation, registrations excluding hotel accommodations will not include breakfast (but will include lunch and dinner each day). All of our partnered hotels have a variety of services including breakfast, laundry machines, fitness center, and internet.
Q: Will transportation be provided to all scheduled activities and events?
A: Yes. We are working out the details on what type of transportation will be provided, but morning and evening transportation to and from the hotel and other contest events will be provided for those who choose not to rent a vehicle. If you wish to travel to/from the airport other than before morning briefing or after flying conclusion each day, you will want to rent a vehicle.
Q: Are additional transportation options available?
A: Yes. Competitors can rent vehicles for whatever duration is desired. Contest organizers are working to arrange discounted rental rates from local rental car companies and more information will be provided in Bulletin 2.
Q: Can I see a diagram of the box?
A: Bulletin 1 includes a diagram of the airport and the likely orientation of the box. However, the organizers have not yet determined the exact orientation or position of the box. Prevailing wind, sun and judge position access is being evaluated. The final box location will be published in Bulletin 2.
Q: What is the price of fuel at the contest site and fuel at practice airports?
A: Currently the price of 100LL at KMCW is set at US$7.05 per gallon (approximately €1.71 per liter ). Fuel and oil (and smoke oil for P5 participants) for contest flights will be provided by the Organizers and is included in the registration fee.
Q: What is the hangar situation at both the contest site and practice sites, before, during, and after the competition?
A: There is sufficient ramp and aircraft parking capacity at the contest airport (KMCW), as well as hangar space. All contest aircraft will be in secured hangar storage each night. There is also room for shipping containers to be unloaded and remain during the contest. Hangar space will be available KMCW for aircraft assemblyWe have support from the local aviation community at the practice airports, including interest and cooperation from local hangar owners. If you are planning on staying in the area and need hangar space, please contact your liaison and we will connect you with potential options.
Q: Recommendations for local restaurants and attractions?
A: Please visit our Mason City page. If you need help with a recommendation or reservation, please reach out to our Contest Concierge on site.
Q: What are the closest airports with airline service?
A: Chicago O’Hare (KORD) and Minneapolis (KMSP) have direct flights from almost every major city in the world, with Chicago being the preferred option. There is a 2-hour transfer flight from Chicago directly to Mason City (the contest location) twice daily. The drive time from Minneapolis to Mason City is about 2 hours.
Q: How do I get a US Pilot validation?
A: If you are bringing your foreign-registered aircraft from your home country, you will not need to possess a United States pilot certificate. If you are renting a United States N-registered plane, you will need a United States FAA issued Pilot License in order to fly the aircraft. Bulletin 1 contains further information about obtaining a US license; anyone wishing to do so should submit the request for verification of foreign license to the FAA immediately.
Q: What aviation rules apply to me?
A: All U.S. flight rules, including FAA regulations and information in the Airmen’s Information Manual, apply to flight in the U.S. Foreign-registered aircraft must have a current airworthiness certificate and inspections. Additionally, to fly in the contest you will be required to have liability insurance in force for the full period of the contest. More information is in Bulletin 1. If you’ll be flying your non-US registered plane across the United States, our Federal Aviation Regulations and some helpful tips on both airspace and communications. You are of course welcome to reach out to your liaison for support in cross country planning as well.
Q: What do I need to be able to drive in the United States?
A: If you rent a car, you will need a valid driver’s license from your country of residence. You will not need an international driver’s permit (IDP) to rent a car in the state of Iowa. Unlicensed drivers will not be allowed to drive. You may wish to rent a vehicle if you desire to travel to/from the airport before the beginning of the contest, throughout the day, or for offsite activities. The Organizers are in the process of obtaining rental discounts at local rental car locations.
Q: What costs can I expect to come out of pocket for while traveling to the US?
A: Our goal is to make this competition as seamless as possible for you. Three meals per day will be provided (minus breakfast for anyone who does not choose one of the contest’s hotel options.) Any outside food or drinks, laundry facilities, or other services not provided by the contest are not covered by the entry fee.
Q: Are there mechanics or a maintenance facility available at the airport? Will parts or replacement parts be available with a short lead time if needed?
A. Several mechanics traveling with teams will be on site. The head of the Technical Committee is an authorized mechanic/engineer, however, he will have responsibilities associated with the contest and may not be able to provide immediate support. Limited parts and basic tools will be available (screwdrivers, wrenches and sockets, brake pads for 330SC aircraft, brake fluid, common screws and washers) will be available. More specific parts are readily available for order, with overnight and other shipping options, from AircraftSpruce.com. Specific manufacturer required parts for Extra aircraft are generally available from Extra USA in Florida for shipping.
Q: Who are my points of contact as a competitor or team manager?
A: For general inquiries that are not time-sensitive, use our contact form and we will respond to you. If you need immediate support, please call or WhatsApp one of the contest organizers.
Q: What food and drink will be available to us onsite and off site as part of the entrance fee?
A: Breakfast will be available at the hotel. Lunch will be provided daily at the airport. Dinner will be provided either on the airport or off-site depending on the event schedule for the evening. Water will be provided at the airport, at the contest central area, and at the judge stations throughout the contest.
Q: Are there laundry facilities that we can use?
A: Yes, the hotels have coin-operated machines (confirmation pending).
Q: If I am bringing my friends and/or family with me, will there be a place for them to hang out at the airport?
A: Absolutely! We expect to have shaded areas with chairs for guests to watch the flying.
Q: Will there be options for activities nearby?
A: Yes. See our Mason City page for details.