Introduction to the AeroSimulations Competition

The AeroSimulations Competition is one of the most anticipated events in the aviation simulation community, drawing participants from across the globe. Whether you are a student pilot, a hobbyist sim enthusiast, or a professional aerospace engineer, this competition offers a platform to showcase your skills, creativity, and technical expertise. To ensure a level playing field and a rewarding experience for everyone, the competition enforces a comprehensive set of rules and regulations. This article provides an in-depth look at those rules, offering practical advice to help you prepare, compete, and succeed. From eligibility and registration to judging criteria and disqualification pitfalls, we cover everything you need to know before you submit your entry.

General Eligibility and Registration

Before you can participate, you must meet the competition’s eligibility requirements. These criteria are designed to maintain fairness and ensure that all participants have a reasonable chance of success. Review the following key aspects:

Age and Residency Requirements

Most categories are open to individuals aged 16 and older. If you are under 18, you will need parental or guardian consent. There are no restrictions on country of residence, but international participants must comply with their local export control laws when using licensed simulation software. The competition actively encourages global participation to foster diverse perspectives in aviation simulation.

Membership and Affiliations

Some categories may require you to be a member of an affiliated aviation organization or a student enrolled in an accredited aviation program. Check the official competition website for the latest membership guidelines. Even if you are not currently a member, many organizations offer free or discounted student memberships that satisfy the requirement.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Registration is conducted entirely online through the competition’s portal. You will need to create an account, complete a detailed profile, and select your competition category. A non-refundable registration fee may apply, though early-bird discounts and fee waivers for qualifying educational institutions are often available. Deadlines are strictly enforced – late registrations are not accepted under any circumstances. Mark the closing date on your calendar and submit your registration well ahead of time to avoid last‑minute technical issues.

Competition Categories

The competition is divided into multiple categories to accommodate different skill levels, interests, and technical backgrounds. Choosing the right category is crucial because the rules, expectations, and judging criteria vary significantly. The primary categories are:

  • Beginner Simulation – Designed for newcomers to flight simulation. This category focuses on basic aircraft handling, navigation, and adherence to standard operating procedures. No plugin modifications or custom scenery are allowed; participants use default aircraft and environments.
  • Advanced Simulation – For experienced simmers who can demonstrate mastery of complex aircraft systems, weather planning, and high‑fidelity flight dynamics. Custom add‑ons are permitted, but they must be declared and approved beforehand.
  • Innovative Design Challenge – A creative category where participants design a conceptual aircraft or a novel simulation scenario using the provided software. Submissions include a written design report, a visual presentation, and a functional simulation demonstration.

In addition to these primary categories, the competition may introduce special tracks such as “Emergency Procedures” or “Historical Re‑enactment” in certain years. Keep an eye on announcements for any new opportunities.

Rules for Each Category

Each category has specific technical and submission rules. Ignorance of these rules is the most common reason for disqualification, so study them carefully.

Beginner Simulation Rules

  • Aircraft must be selected from the approved list provided by the competition. Modifications to flight dynamics or systems are strictly prohibited.
  • Simulation must be flown in real time (no time acceleration).
  • All flights begin from a default airport location; no custom start positions are allowed.
  • VTOL and supersonic flight are not permitted unless specifically stated for a given challenge.

Advanced Simulation Rules

  • Participants may use any licensed add‑on aircraft or scenery, but must provide a manifest of all third‑party content used.
  • Aircraft performance and system behavior must be verified against real‑world data; unrealistic tweaks will be penalized.
  • Weather settings can be customized, but extreme or unrealistic weather (e.g., 100‑knot crosswinds) is not allowed.
  • A mandatory pre‑flight briefing video must be submitted alongside the simulation file.

Innovative Design Challenge Rules

  • Submissions must include a design concept that is physically plausible (even if futuristic). Pure fantasy designs (e.g., anti‑gravity craft) are not accepted.
  • The simulation demonstrator must be flyable within the competition’s approved software.
  • A written report (PDF, up to 10 pages) must detail the design process, aerodynamic assumptions, and intended application.
  • Entries must be original; any use of copyrighted material requires explicit permission.

Simulation Guidelines

To ensure comparability and fairness, all participants must use standardized simulation software that is either provided by the organizers or from a shortlist of approved titles. Currently, the official platforms are X‑Plane 12 and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024. Participants are expected to run the latest stable version of the software and to disable any mods that alter core simulation logic.

Consistency Across Entries

The competition enforces strict consistency rules. For example, all Beginner Simulation entries must be flown under the same weather preset (clear skies, light wind). In Advanced Simulation, participants may choose their weather, but they must save and submit the weather file so judges can replicate the conditions. The intention is to compare skill, not the ability to cherry‑pick favorable weather.

Recording and Submission

Entries must be recorded using the simulation’s built‑in replay feature or an approved video capture tool. The recording should include a visible timer showing real‑time progression; edited or spliced videos are grounds for immediate disqualification. Submit your files via the competition’s secure upload portal before the deadline. Accepted formats include .MP4 (video) and .FDR (flight data recorder logs).

Technical Specifications

Your hardware and software configuration can affect both performance and compliance. The competition publishes minimum and recommended specifications to ensure that no participant gains an unfair advantage from superior equipment. Pay attention to the following:

  • Hardware requirements: A computer meeting the minimum specs of the simulation software is mandatory. Specialized peripherals (yokes, pedals, throttle quadrants) are allowed, but head‑tracking or eye‑tracking devices that provide an aiming advantage are restricted in certain categories.
  • Software version restrictions: All participants must use the version of the simulation software that is listed on the competition website at the time of registration. Beta or developer builds are prohibited.
  • File submission formats: Video files must be encoded with H.264 or H.265 at a resolution no lower than 1080p. Flight data logs must be in CSV or JSON format following a predefined schema. The competition provides a validation tool to check your files before upload.

If you are unsure about your setup, consult the official technical specifications page for detailed compatibility lists.

Judging Criteria and Scoring

Judging is a multi‑stage process designed to evaluate both objective performance and subjective quality. A panel of experienced pilots, engineers, and simulation enthusiasts scores each entry. The scoring breakdown is as follows:

  • Creativity and Innovation (40%) – How original is the approach? Does the entry introduce a novel technique, design, or scenario? For the Innovative Design Challenge, this metric carries the most weight.
  • Realism and Accuracy (30%) – Adherence to real‑world procedures, accurate flight dynamics, and appropriate use of aircraft systems. Judges cross‑reference flight data with standard performance charts.
  • Technical Execution (20%) – Quality of the recording, stability of the simulation, and absence of glitches or unrealistic behavior. Clean, error‑free submissions score higher.
  • Presentation and Documentation (10%) – Clarity of the submitted report or video. Well‑organized, professional presentations are rewarded.

Scoring Process

Each category is judged separately. Preliminary scores are computed by averaging the scores of three independent judges. Top‑scoring entries advance to a final round where head‑to‑head comparisons are made. Finalists may be invited to a live online interview to defend their work.

To learn more about how judging panels operate in simulation competitions, see FAA’s guidance on simulation validation for an authoritative perspective on realism standards.

Prohibited Actions and Disqualifications

The competition maintains a strict code of conduct. Violations of the rules can lead to score penalties, disqualification, and a ban from future events. Avoid these common pitfalls:

  • Plagiarism – Submitting work that is not your own. This includes using pre‑made flight replays, copying another participant’s design, or using AI‑generated code without disclosure.
  • Software tampering – Modifying the simulation’s core files to gain an unfair advantage (e.g., changing engine thrust values).
  • False information – Providing incorrect registration details, fabricated flight logs, or forged consent forms.

Common Disqualification Reasons

  • Non‑compliance with technical standards – Using unauthorized add‑ons, incorrect file formats, or exceeding hardware limitations.
  • Late submission – The upload portal closes automatically at the deadline. No extensions are granted. Plan for at least two hours of buffer time.
  • Use of unauthorized software or hardware – For example, using a different flight simulator than the one officially approved.

If you have any doubt about a specific action, contact the competition’s ethics officer before submitting. It is better to ask than to be disqualified.

Prizes and Recognition

Winners in each category receive trophies, certificates, and valuable opportunities. Prizes often include:

  • Internships and collaborations – Top performers may be offered internships at partner aerospace companies or research institutions. Past partners include Boeing, Airbus, and multiple flight schools.
  • Software licenses – Free or discounted licenses for professional simulation tools.
  • Publication – Winning entries are featured on the competition’s website and in partner industry magazines.

All participants receive a certificate of participation and detailed feedback from the judges. This feedback is an invaluable learning tool, especially for those aiming to improve in future competitions.

Preparing for a Successful Submission

Beyond knowing the rules, practical preparation can set you apart. Here are some tips:

  • Read the official rulebook cover to cover at least twice. Take notes on the points most relevant to your category.
  • Use the competition’s practice challenges to test your setup and become comfortable with the submission format.
  • Join community forums or Discord channels dedicated to the competition. Experienced participants often share advice.
  • Double-check your file formats and metadata before final upload. Use the validation tool provided on the website.
  • If you are entering the Innovative Design Challenge, have a peer review your report for clarity and logical flow.

Conclusion

The AeroSimulations Competition is more than a contest – it is a celebration of aviation passion and technical skill. By thoroughly understanding and respecting the rules and regulations, you not only avoid disqualification but also demonstrate the professionalism that judges look for. Whether you are aiming for a top prize or simply want to challenge yourself, a well‑prepared submission is your best path to success. Study the guidelines, practice diligently, and join thousands of enthusiasts in pushing the boundaries of flight simulation. Good luck – we look forward to seeing your entry soar.