The Pilot

Yuichi Takagi -Performer-

Like most youth, Yuichi (pronounced Yu-i-chi) was captivated by flying. Born and raised in Japan, he moved to the United States to search for a new challenge and pursue his dream of becoming an aviator.

Yuichi made his first flight in 1992 and has accumulated more than 8,000 hours as a flight instructor, cargo pilot, and traffic watch pilot. He is also a certified aircraft mechanic (A&P).

He is also an active competitor flying his Pitts Special in the Unlimited category. An aerobatic competition judge for the Federation Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) and International Aerobatic Club (IAC) and a chief judge/instructor for the Japan Sport Aerobatic Club.

With 20 years of competition aerobatic flying experience, Yuichi’s precise flying and dynamic style make his classic Pitts Special S-2S dance across the sky.

The Airplane

Pitts Special S-2S -aircraft-

The Pitts Special S-2S is an exceptional aerobatic biplane known for its impressive performance. Featuring a robust fuselage for handling high aerobatic G-loads, and the high-performance “WolfPitts Wing” designed by Steve Wolf, which enhances its roll rate with oversized ailerons on main wings.

Powered by a Lycoming AEIO-540-D4A5 aerobatic engine, tuned to output 330 horsepower by LyCon Aircraft Engines, this airplane is built for high-octane aerobatic maneuvers. The MT-Propeller’s MTV-9-B-C is a constant-speed propeller with wide chord blades, ensures consistent power and high thrust.

With its iconic, traditional red and white paint, classic rounded wing tips and beautiful lines in the air and on the ground, the Pitts Special is a favorite among air show fans.

U.S. National Aerobatic Championships (Aerobatic Competition)

Sunday, September 28, 2025 – Friday, October 3, 2025
Salina Regional Airport (KSLN), Salina, Kansas, USA
U.S. National Aerobatic Championships (https://www.iac.org/contest/2025-09-28-us-national-aerobatic-championships)

R.P.P. Aerobatic Training Camp in Fukushima, Japan (Aerobatic Flight Instruction)

October, 2025 – November, 2025
Fukushima Sky Park, Fukushima, Japan
Race Pilot Program (https://path-finder.co.jp/rpp/)

2024 ICAS Convention

Monday, December 8, 2025 – Thursday, December 11, 2025
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
International Council of Air Shows (https://airshows.aero/CMS/ICASConvention)

Sponsors

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