Aerobatics is the demonstration of stunts performed in flight. Pilots often take part in aerobatics for training, recreation, or entertainment. Aerobatic maneuvers are typically composed of rotations around an axis.

Aircraft fly solo or in formations while performing tricks and stunts at high speeds. Demonstrations are closely related to military practices, and justly carry a patriotic flair. Aerobatics can be performed by any aircraft, but degree of difficulty is greatly determined by the capabilities of the aircraft in question.

To perform various tricks and stunts while flying solo or in formations with other aircraft.

While there aren't any formalized rules for aerobatics, there are common practices that pilots follow. These practices have evolved from tradition (releasing lines of colored smoke that correspond to the aircraft's country of origin) and safety (never flying directly behind another aircraft). Aerobatics teams with military connections are adherent to any/all rules of their branch of service.

Aerobatics began in the early days of flying, when pilots used their aircraft to perform daring maneuvers in order to entertain spectators on the ground. Many maneuvers developed by these early aviators were later incorporated into military training because of their usefulness in aerial combat. As aircrafts have evolved, so too has aerobatics. Jets and helicopters are now commonplace in aerobatics, and have brought with them a variety of maneuvers, previously impossible for other aircraft to perform. Today, aerobatics are performed in many countries throughout the world, and continue to evolve based on new innovations in aviation.

Aircraft (type varies based on maneuvers performed)

Pilots undergo very extensive training before flying, and always fly equipped with parachutes. Surprisingly, fatalities are rare despite the dangerous nature of the sport.

Training occurs mostly under a military apparatus, though civilian schools are prevalent in many countries. Pilots are trained to have precise control over the aircraft in order to pull off difficult maneuvers while flying close to others. They also practice many hours to choreograph moves.

Flight Formation - patterned flight of two or more aircraft

Looping - rotation of the aircraft along its pitch axis

Rolling - rotation of the aircraft along its longitudinal axis

Yawing - rotation of the aircraft along its vertical axis

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aerobatics