Competitor FAQs

How do I register for the contest?

1. If you haven't already done so, please create an account by clicking on the icon at the upper right of the screen:
2. Fill out and submit the registration form
3. Pay online or contact us for wire transfer instructions.

Will we be able to select a registration option that does not include hotel accommodations?

Yes. You will have options to register for the contest alone with hospitality included, but not accommodations, if you wish. Here are suggestions for local hotels, however the rate that we have negotiated with the partnered hotel will allow you to spend less money overall when you choose to register with accommodations. All of our partnered hotels have a variety of services including breakfast, laundry service, fitness center, pool, and business center. 

Will transportation be provided to all scheduled activities and events?

Yes. We are working out the details on what type of transportation will be provided, but all transportation to and from the hotel and other contest events will be provided. We are also looking into a secondary transportation option for regional activities for contestants, friends and family, and officials during down-time or weather delays.

Will additional transportation options be made available for use?

Competitors can rent vehicles from Enterprise Rent-a-Car for whatever duration is desired.

Can I see a diagram of the box?

The contest bulletins include a box diagram and coordinates.

What is the price of fuel at the contest site and fuel at practice airports?

Right now it is hovering around US$5.50 to $6.00 per gallon ($1.38 - $1.50 per litre). If this changes drastically, we’ll update it to reflect current pricing. 

What is the hangar situation at both the contest site and practice sites, before, during, and after the competition?

Contest Site (KGVQ - Genesee County Airport - Batavia, New York): Hangar space is ample and will be easily available for all planes before the contest and during the contest. Once the contest has completed, the airfield will begin setup for their annual airshow and hangar space will be handed over to aircraft participating in the airshow. For those wishing to stay in the area we have arranged additional hangar space at two nearby airports. If you are planning on staying in the area and need hangar space, please contact your liaison and we will arrange it for you.  

We are working to secure additional hangar space at the alternate practice sites; see the contest bulletins for the list.

Recommendations for local restaurants and attractions?

If you’re looking to stay in Batavia, there are a number of local restaurants and things to do that can be viewed on the Batavia page that we’ll be posting come December. For a far greater variety of restaurants, we can recommend a number of great ones in both Rochester, NY and Buffalo, NY. If you need help with a recommendation or reservation, please reach out to your liaison. 

What are the closest Airports to Airline into?

Buffalo, NY and Rochester, NY are the closest international airports. If you’re looking to arrive earlier or stay later and want to explore other areas, Toronto YYZ and New York City’s JFK or LGA are great alternatives as they are larger and will have a greater selection of flights. Keep in mind that there is a border crossing between Toronto and Batavia. If you do select that option, take some time to stop at the Duty Free shop on your trip for tax-free goods from the US and Canada. See our travel page for more details.

How do I get a US Pilot validation?

If you are bringing your 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 validation in order to fly the aircraft. If you would like assistance in understanding the regulations or acquiring the validation, please contact your liaison.

What aviation rules apply to me?

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. 

What do I need to be able to drive in the United States? 

If you will either be renting a car or using one of our courtesy vehicles, you must submit a valid driver's license from your country of residence 30 days before the start of the contest. Best practice would be to submit that along with your registration documents so long as your license does not expire before the contest start date. You will not need an international driver’s permit (IDP) to rent a car or use our courtesy vehicles in New York State. Unlicensed drivers will not be allowed to drive. 

What costs can I expect to come out of pocket for while traveling to the US?

Our goal is to make this competition as seamless as possible for you. We want to keep the out of pocket costs to you at a minimum as we know the time, dedication, and costs already associated with this sport to begin with. Any outside food or drinks, laundry facilities, services not provided by the contest are not covered by the entry fee.

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? 

Yes, we have multiple partners who will be on standby who have promised to give priority to parts requests and sourcing for the competitors.

Who are my points of contact as a competitor or team manager?

For general inquiries that are not time sensitive, you may reach out to our contact email: contact@2026wac.com and we will respond to you within 24 hours. If you need immediate support, please call or WhatsApp your designated liaison for support in less than 24 hours. 

What food and drink will be available to us onsite and off site as part of the entrance fee?

Our goal is to make sure all competitors are treated well and have everything they need. We will have water, coffee, energy drinks, and healthy food options such as fresh fruit and or vegetables, granola, cured meat, nuts, and snacks available each day in addition to providing meals. Breakfast will be available at the hotel or a lighter breakfast (bagels, yogurt, granola, berries) will be offered at the airport each morning. Lunch will be provided daily. Dinner will be provided either on the airport or off-site depending on the event schedule for the evening. We respect that many competitors will want to walk their sequences and eat in private later - We’ll have take-away boxes available for competitors to bring food and snacks back to the hotel each evening. 

Will we have access to any local fitness facilities?

Yes. Each hotel does have a fitness facility that you can access using your room key. In addition to this, we have partnered with Planet Fitness in Batavia, NY to offer you a free pass for the duration of the contest. The facility has showers, massage beds, and any fitness equipment you might need. 

Are there laundry facilities that we can use? 

Yes, you will have access to laundry facilities in your hotel. If you would like to save time and drop your laundry off at a wash facility, we can recommend House O' Laundry.

If I am bringing my friends and/or family with me, will there be a place for them to hang out at the airport and will there be options for activities for them while I’m practicing or flying? 

Absolutely! We welcome your family or friends to join us in the hospitality hangar. This is a separate area from spectators. The hangar and viewing is shaded, food and beverage are available, WiFi will be available, as will restrooms. In addition, depending on how many friends and family are in attendance, we are looking into coordinating day trips to places such as Niagara Falls, Rochester, and Downtown Buffalo for those that want to get out while the competitor they came with is practicing.