Foto: ARQUIVO PESSOAL
,, Come discover Ceará during a different time of year, join this movement, and experience everything the Northeast has to offer both inside and outside the competitions,
The 2026 Cearense Free Flying Cup was designed in three stops, each with its own identity. The first, in Tianguá, took place on May 15, 16, and 17. The second will be in Pacatuba, from August 21 to 23, and the third stage will be in Quixadá, with dates yet to be determined. Pacatuba features one of the closest launch sites to Fortaleza, and this proximity to the capital helps attract more pilots, clubs, spectators, and the local community to the competitive environment.
This stage reinforces one of the main functions of the Cearense Cup: creating competitive regularity within the state, offering a clearer pathway for pilots who wish to progress and participate in higher-level technical events. With the support of the Pacatuba Free Flying Club (CPVL), engaged pilots, and a location that favors regional participation, Pacatuba represents an important piece in consolidating the Ceará calendar.
Pilot Rogério Monguba flying over a green Ceará during the first stop in Tianguá
One of the most important aspects of this initiative is holding competitions during the "green season." During this period, which runs from April to June, conditions are typically different from the dry season: there is more humidity, better cloud formation, milder temperatures, and a more comfortable environment for pilots. Thermals tend to be less aggressive, making the tasks more technical and strategic. This allows developing pilots to experience a competitive atmosphere under more accessible conditions, while challenging more experienced pilots in weather reading, line selection, and decision-making. “The green season favors more strategic, safe, and accessible tasks, contributing to athlete development and strengthening free flying in the state,” highlights Roger Messala Pimentel, president of the CPVL.
Quixadá launch site, one of the most famous in world free flying. PHOTO:José William (Galego)
The third and final stop will be in the Quixadá region, one of the most famous free flying launch sites in the world. Known for long-distance flights, the region has also been showing potential for technical competitions outside the classic record-breaking season. “Come discover Ceará during a different time of year, join this movement, and experience everything the Northeast has to offer both inside and outside the competitions,” concludes Fernando Brandalize, known as 'Zoio', executive director of competitions at the CBVL.
