Red Bull Flugtag

RBF Wien Fliegende Puch Maxi

flying pub flugtag 2003

Red Bull Flugtag 2011 Moscow - participating machines 04

Die Bienenweide

Motus, LLC team at Red Bull Flugtag 2016

Red Bull Flugtag 2011 Israel - Kibbutz Gilad

Red Bull Flugtag is an event organized by the Red Bull company, in which competitors attempt to fly homemade, human-powered flying machines. The name "Flugtag" translates to "flight day" in German, which is a fitting description of the event. It is a one-day event that takes place around the globe, drawing participants and spectators in large numbers. The competition emphasizes creativity, showmanship, and of course, the attempt to achieve flight.

History

The first Red Bull Flugtag took place in Vienna, Austria in 1991. Since then, the event has grown in popularity and has been held in various cities around the world. The concept was inspired by birdman rallies, events where individuals attempt to fly homemade contraptions over water. Red Bull Flugtag has become one of the most recognized events sponsored by the energy drink company, showcasing the brand's association with extreme sports and adventurous activities.

Event Format

During the event, teams launch their flying machines off a pier about 6 meters (20 feet) high into the water below. The flying machines are judged on three criteria: distance flown, creativity of the craft, and showmanship. This means that while the distance the craft flies is important, the design of the machine and the performance of the team prior to the flight are also crucial components of the competition.

Rules and Regulations

Participants in the Red Bull Flugtag must adhere to specific rules. The flying machines must be powered by human force alone, with no external energy sources or stored power. The crafts must also be less than 10 meters (30 feet) in width and must weigh no more than 150 kilograms (330 pounds) excluding the pilot. Safety is a key concern, so participants are required to wear helmets and life jackets.

Notable Events

Over the years, Red Bull Flugtag has seen a wide variety of flying machines, from realistic airplane replicas to more whimsical designs like flying tacos and dragons. Some events have set records for attendance and flight distance. For example, in 2012, a team in Mainz, Germany, set a world record for the longest flight in Flugtag history, flying 69.79 meters (229 feet).

Cultural Impact

Red Bull Flugtag has had a significant cultural impact, showcasing the spirit of innovation and fun. It has become a popular event not just for the spectacle of flight attempts, but also for the creativity and humor of the participants. The event has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting the entertaining aspects of human ingenuity and the pursuit of seemingly impossible challenges.

See Also

• Red Bull
• Air sports
• Human-powered aircraft