Mr. Ray Kitchener, President of the Marathon Chamber of Commerce, in the Florida Keys, waves the Conch Republic Flag to start the 1999 race. To enter, all you need is a private license or higher. An instrument rating is not required. Pilot must have 200 hours logged, including 100 hours of cross-country. Co-pilot is required, but need not be licensed.
Additional crew is optional.
During the race, the aircraft exceeding its handicap speed by the greatest margin is the winner. The Florida Race Pilots Association is a non-profit organization made up entirely of volunteers who give their time, money and aircraft to support the Great Southern Air Race. Without the help of these folks, pilots and non-pilots alike, many people would never come to know the joys of aviation. Our goal, with your support, is to introduce, encourage and promote general aviation while offering a fun way to gain proficiency. We're excited to bring you this web site and offer you a look at our air race.