What does an Aresti diagram look like?
In order to write aerobatic manoeuvres, figures and sequences down on paper so that other people can read, fly and judge them a universal 'language' is essential. The system used throughout the aerobatic world was originally developed by the Spanish aerobatic ace José Louis Aresti.

To become proficient as an aerobatic judge or pilot a good understanding of the CIVA Aresti System (Condensed) is a priority. It has a basic set of "rules" which govern how the symbols are used, and each manoeuvre has an identifying reference number and a numeric coefficient for its difficulty rating, allowing the user to build "K-factors" for composite figures. The catalogue lists the complete range of basic and complementary manoeuvres from which aerobatic figures may be constructed for inclusion in programme I (pilot designed), programme II and III (unknown) sequences to meet the specific requirements of any contest.

BAeA Rules
The British Aerobatic Association has it's own rules to define and control the conduct of power and glider aerobatic competitions in the UK, these extending the international Unlimited level regulations to cover contest flying at Beginners, Sports, Standard, Intermediate and Advanced levels as well. Included also are procedures on contest and judging line administration, guidance notes on the handling of judges' score sheets and the computer results calculation process. These key BAeA and CIVA reference works are normally revised annually to embody current thinking in the sport.