Registration is now open for the 2026 ARC Air Derby, a one-day cross-country event that challenges pilots on precision, planning, and navigation rather than speed.
Air Race Classic
Flying The Perfect Cross-Country
Close to 100 women pilots took to the skies for the 49th annual Air Race Classic, an ultimate cross-country flying adventure spanning 2,400 nautical miles.
Air Race Classic Announces 2026 Winners
Officials crown the 2026 winners and announce the upcoming 2027 route details.
Air Race Classic Takes Off
More than 100 women pilots are taking to the skies for the 49th annual Air Race Classic. Tracing its roots back to 1929, this historic four day competition challenges aviators to navigate a route across eight states.
Registration Opens for Air Race Classic
The 49th annual all-women’s race will take place from June 23-26, 2026, highlighting the aviation heritage of the Midwest and Southeast.
Registration for the 2025 ARC Air Derby opens Sept. 1
The Derby is a one-day aviation event designed to challenge pilots on precision, planning, and navigation. The event offers pilots the opportunity to select their own route and flight day, providing flexibility to work around their schedules and weather conditions. Flights for this year’s Derby may take place from Oct. 1-14.
Air Race Classic unveils 2026 route
The 2026 race will highlight the aviation heritage and communities of Illinois, launching from St Louis Regional Airport (KALN) in East Alton, continuing through eight stops, then concluding at Mount Vernon Airport (KMVN).
Air Race Classic winners named
“In keeping with the 96-year rich history of women’s air racing and the 48th race of its kind, the pilots of this year’s Air Race Classic were met with challenges surrounding weather, decision-making, aircraft performance, and strategy,” officials noted.
Different paths to the cockpit
Rachel Skirvin and Sarah Roark didn’t start their working lives in aviation, but made bold pivots once they found their passion. Their journeys prove aviation can be a second career — even for those from entirely different fields.