Mission Statement | Official Records | Annual Report | Membership

The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) traces its roots back to 1905 when the Aero Club of America was founded. It is the nation's oldest aviation organization.

The founders of the Aero Club of America concluded very early that one of the most effective ways to encourage the advancement of the art, sport and science of aviation was through competition. Competition encourages individuals and organizations to push the science of aeronautics to the limit of existing technology. This is as true today as it was in the early days of aviation.

During most of its 90+ year history, NAA has been a member of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI). The FAI is the international organization responsible for coordination of air sports, competition and certification of all aviation and space records in the world. NAA, as the U.S. representative of the FAI, is responsible for coordination and certification of all aviation and space records originating in the United States.

MISSION STATEMENT

The National Aeronautic Association is the National Aero Club of the United States. Its primary mission is the advancement of the art, sport and science of aviation and space flight by fostering opportunities to participate fully in aviation activities and by promoting public understanding of the importance of aviation and space flight to the United States. In carrying out its mission, NAA, as the National Aero Club of the United States, will:

Develop opportunities to strengthen the mutual objectives of NAA and its corporate members, air sports organizations, chapters and affiliates, including the formation of affiliated aero clubs where such organizations do not now exist;

Represent United States aviation throughout the world as a member of the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale;

Encourage, coordinate, document and promote competition and record-making aviation and space events in accordance with the rules prescribed by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale, of which NAA is the official U.S. representative;

Recognize and reward those who make outstanding contributions to the advancement of aviation and space flight through presentations of awards and other honors;

Endorse sound national programs and other efforts designed to help the United States remain a leader in aviation and space flight;

Support and encourage aviation and space education programs; and

Promote and encourage public participation in, and appreciation of, U.S. aviation and space activities. 

OFFICIAL RECORDS

To establish uniformity in the recognition of the many possible aircraft performances, a standard record classification has been adopted by the FAI for "Absolute World" and "World Class" records. United States National records are also recognized following these FAI clasifications.

Absolute World Records
Absolute World Records are defined as maximum performances regardless of the class or type of aircraft used. The following are recognized:

Great Circle Distance without Landing
Distance in a Closed Circuit without Landing
Altitude
Altitude, Airplane Launched from Ship
Altitude in Horizontal Flight
Speed over a Straight Course
Speed over a Closed Circuit

World Class Records
All other records which are international in scope and necessarily the best world performances for the particular type of aircraft are termed "World Class Records" to differentiate from the aforementioned maximum achievements. World Class Records are, therefore, defined as the best international performances for the classes and categories recognized by the FAI. These are:

Class A: Free Balloon
Class B: Airship
Class C: Aeroplane, Seaplane, Amphibian (further divided into weight subclasses)
Class D: Glider
Class E: Rotorcraft (further divided into weight subclasses)
Class F: Model Aircraft
Class G: Parachute
Class H: Jetlift Aircraft (VTOL)
Class I: Human Powered Aircraft
Class K: Spacecraft
Class L: Limited Altitude Vehicle
Class M: Tilt Wing / Tilt Engine Aircraft
Class N: Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) Aircraft
Class O: Hang Glider
Class P: Aerospacecraft
Class R: Microlight
Class S: Space Model

ANNUAL REPORT OF THE NAA
NAA MEMBERSHIP

World and United States Aviation and Space Records is published annually by the National Aeronautic Association, and is the only publication of its kind. Inside, you will discover records for just about everything that flies—from piston to jet engine aircraft, model rockets to the space shuttle, and everything in between.

This unique volume is the definitive reference book used throughout the world. Order your own copy through the NAA website for only $19.95 plus shipping.

Or become a member of the National Aeronautic Association and enjoy a number of membership benefits, including a copy of the current World and United States Aviation and space Records edition. Complete membership details, and a sign-up form, are available at the NAA website.