About Us
Redline Airshows is a dynamic father-son formation aerobatic team based in Cincinnati, Ohio, known for delivering high-energy performances across North America. With a passion for precision flying and aviation excellence, Redline showcases thrilling formation aerobatics that captivate audiences of all ages, Ken and Austin Rieder’s expertly choreographed routine combines skill, speed and daring maneuvers, set against a back drop of high-performance aircraft and vibrant smoke trails.
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In addition to their stunning daytime routine, Redline Airshows is renowned for their spectacular night show. Equipped with specially modified wing tips, their Van’s RV-8s light up the sky with dazzling fireworks launched directly from the aircraft. This unique blend of aerobatics and pyrotechnics creates a mesmerizing aerial display that leaves audiences spellbound, making Redline a highlight of any Airshow.
Van's RV-8 Experimental Aircraft
Redline Airshows is led by team pilots Ken Rieder and Austin Rieder, who fly the Van’s RV-8—an incredibly versatile two-seat, tandem aircraft. With over 10,000 RV-8s flying worldwide, this aircraft is known for its agility and performance. It reaches speeds of up to 230 miles per hour while maintaining the ability to land at just 55 miles per hour, allowing access to a wide range of airports. With a fuel endurance of over four hours, the RV-8 boasts a range of more than 700 nautical miles. Powered by a 200-horsepower engine and equipped with Hartzell Advanced Structural Composite propellers, Redline’s aircraft deliver top-tier aerobatic performance and reliability.
Ken Rieder (Dad)
Flight Lead
Ken Rieder has been flying for 35 years and has logged over 13,000 flight hours. A former corporate and airline pilot, Ken is also a multi-engine flight instructor for land and seaplanes and an aerobatic instructor. An avid aircraft builder, he has completed four custom-modified Van’s Aircraft RV-8s and is currently working on his fifth. Ken now flies the Airbus A320 series as an airline pilot. In addition to his aviation career, he owns a property management company and operates a construction business in the greater Cincinnati area. His passion for aviation was ignited at a young age after watching the U.S. Navy Blue Angels perform in F-4 Phantoms at Cincinnati’s Lunken Airport, an experience that inspired his lifelong love for flight.
Austin Rieder (Son)
Wing Pilot
Austin Rieder, born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, has been flying for 16 years. As the son of Ken Rieder, he has spent more than half of his flight time on his father’s wing. His passion for aviation began early, completing his first solo flight in a glider at the age of 14 and in a powered aircraft at 16. In addition to his role as a wing pilot, Austin manages logistics and project coordination for a construction company based in Cincinnati.
Sponsors
Redline is proud to partner with the following companies:
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Hartzell Propeller and Hartzell Engine Technologies: This team uses the Advanced Structural Composite Propeller providing superior performance and efficiency
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JB Aircraft Engine Service: supplier of the Redline Engine
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Champion Aerospace (magnetos, spark plugs, oil filters and engine accessories)
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SteinAir – avionics and aircraft accessories
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Byerly Aviation – FBO based in Peoria IL- Aircraft Maintenance, Avionics, Aircraft Painting, Chater service
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Oregon Aero aircraft seats
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Hooker Harness
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EarthX Batteries
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AVstar Fuel Systems
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Pacific Oil Cooler Service
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Whelen Engineering – aircraft lighting
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Flightline Interiors
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Softie parachutes