Performance and Dimensions

The US built EDGE 540 is Michael’s aircraft of choice for the Red Bull Air Race World Championship. The EDGE 540 is a single-seat, tube and fabric covered race plane with carbon fiber wings and tail. It’s produced by Zivko Aeronautics in Guthrie, Oklahoma. Due to its extreme handling characteristics and maneuverability, this is the racer of choice for many of the Red Bull Air Race pilots, as it rivals the performance of the MXS aircraft used by some of the other competitors.

Michael’s EDGE has been modified to fly faster and perform better under high-G turns. Modifications to decrease drag and aircraft weight and increase high-speed performance give Michael the comfort he needs when flying.
Modifications include a reconfigured cockpit panel, a new cowling, and a re-designed canopy. The reconfigured cockpit mimics Michael’s Extra 330SC air show aircraft, thus allowing Michael to make a smooth and safe transition between his two aircraft. A new cowling was designed specifically for the Team #99 EDGE to shave some of the weight off and make the aircraft lighter and more maneuverable. A complete re-design of the bubble canopy offers greatly increased aerodynamic performance.

Under Mike’s watchful eye, the EDGE has been transformed from a standard aerobatic airplane to a sleek and powerful racing aircraft. “This is definitely a racecar with wings” says Michael of his EDGE.