High-Speed Precision: Rick Volker Brings the Rare Marchetti SF.260 to Akron's Props and Pistons Festival
- The Props and Pistons Festival
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
This August at the Props and Pistons Festival, aviation fans will have the rare opportunity to witness a solo aerobatic act unlike anything seen in North America. Internationally renowned pilot Rick Volker is set to push the limits of gravity, physics, and human endurance in the SIAI Marchetti SF.260, a fast, sleek Italian warbird-turned-aerobatic marvel.
A Master of the Skies
Rick Volker isn’t just another airshow pilot—he’s a high-performance machine in his own right. With a background that spans world-class Unlimited aerobatic competitions, classic WWII warbird displays, and Heritage Formation Flights alongside modern fighter jets, Rick has carved out a reputation for doing things in the air that few others dare to attempt.
His aerobatic resume reads like a medal count: champion of the Can-Am, Henry Haigh, and Kathy Jaffe Challenges, and a skilled performer in elite aircraft like the Sukhoi Su-26, Pitts Specials, and the legendary Supermarine Spitfire. He’s one of only a handful of pilots worldwide certified to fly both the Messerschmitt Bf109E and G, making his credentials as rare as the aircraft he commands.
But what truly sets Rick apart is his physical conditioning. A former competitive athlete in swimming, speed skating, cycling, and bodybuilding, Rick trains his body as intensely as he trains his flying. Why? Because to handle +11 to -9 Gs—often within a single maneuver—you need elite endurance and razor-sharp reflexes.
The Aircraft: SIAI Marchetti SF.260
Enter the SIAI Marchetti SF.260C, an Italian-built powerhouse designed for military training and tactical roles across more than 30 countries. Designed by aviation legend Stelio Frati, the SF.260 has served global air forces since the 1960s and remains in production today by aerospace giant Leonardo.
This is not your average airshow performer. Capable of flying at 230 knots and rated for 6 Gs, the Marchetti is sleek, nimble, and armed (quite literally in its military configuration) with the tools of combat. For Rick, it’s the perfect instrument of aerial artistry. Outfitted with inverted fuel, oil, and smoke systems, his Marchetti is optimized for high-energy routines: snap rolls, vertical climbs, and mirror-smooth inverted passes.
While the Marchetti SF.260 is a staple in military training around the world, it’s rarely been showcased as a solo aerobatic act in North America—until now.
What to Expect at the Props and Pistons Festival
When Rick takes to the skies over Akron Fulton Airport on August 16–17, expect to see a performance that blends military precision, artistic aerobatics, and unrelenting speed. He’ll transform the SF.260 into a living sculpture in motion—flipping, spinning, rolling, and diving in ways that defy what most think a piston aircraft can do.
Whether you're a lifelong aviation enthusiast or a first-time attendee, Rick’s performance will leave you breathless. His act is a highlight in a weekend lineup packed with vintage warbirds, historic tributes, STEM activities, and family-friendly aviation excitement.
Want to fly with Rick?
Here’s your chance! We’re raffling off a once-in-a-lifetime flight with Rick Volker himself. To enter, simply purchase a raffle ticket along with your Props and Pistons admission (any ticket level qualifies).
The winning flight will take place on Thursday or Friday evening after Rick’s practice performance. Must be 18 or older, under 220 lbs, and able to safely enter/exit the aircraft.
Nothing beats a loop in the sky with one of the world’s best!
Don’t Miss It!
Come see Rick Volker and the SIAI Marchetti SF.260 live at the Props and Pistons Festival—August 16–17, 2025 at the historic Akron Fulton Airport. This is more than just an airshow. It’s a celebration of aviation excellence, past and present.
🎟️ Get your tickets now and witness the thrill of high-speed aerobatics from one of the best in the world.
