Start your engines! The 30th edition of the thrilling FAI World Aerobatic Championships takes off this evening with an Opening Ceremony at 6pm local French time.

Held at the Châteauroux-Centre airport in central France, this year’s competition runs from 22 to 31 August and will include 18 teams from around the world. Pilots from Australia, Switzerland, Russia, and the USA will be among those battling to steal the crown from the reigning French team.

More than 100,000 spectators are expected to visit the event site between now and 31 August to witness their incredible feats of aerobatic skill, while enjoying the varied entertainment programme put on by local organisers the Fédération Française Aéronautique (FFA) and Châteauroux Métropole.

This year, the programme will include demonstrations of other air sports, test flights, and a range of stands.

Competition flights will take place every day from 22 to 31 August (weather permitting), with visitors on the final day of the event also being treated to a spectacular air show including a wingwalking display and demonstrations by several French Army teams.

Entrance and parking at the event is free of charge.

Photo credit: FAI/Laurie Zaleski (from the 27th FAI World Aerobatic Championships)