Building the Airshow Layout

Building the Airshow Layout by Hand in Google Earth: Constructing the Aerobatic Box for Cat I, II, and III Air Shows

This training module from the ICAS Air Boss Recognition Program walks through the complete manual method for laying out an aerobatic box in Google Earth Pro, no scripting or automated tools required. Learn how to establish a true-heading reference frame, hand-calculate coordinate offsets from FAA-mandated show line distances, place and connect points to build a compliant box, and catch the construction errors that get Certificate of Waiver packages rejected.

Every distance and rule in this module traces to a specific citation in FAA Order 8900.1 CHG 694 and Advisory Circular 91-45C, so you can verify each step against the source regulation and defend your layout to an FAA inspector.

This module is part of the AB 201 Standard Air Boss course, Show Site Design block, within the ICAS Air Boss Recognition Program (ABRP).

Reference: FAA Order 8900.1 CHG 694, Table 3-1, Table 3-1A, Section 3-148; Advisory Circular 91-45C.

Training reference only. Verify all requirements against the current ABRP Manual, applicable FAA Orders, and FSDO guidance before any operational application.