What constitutes aerobatic flight?

Aerobatic flight is defined by intentional maneuvers that involve significant and often abrupt changes in an aircraft's altitude or direction, as well as abnormal acceleration forces experienced by the aircraft and its occupants. This definition encapsulates a range of maneuvers that dramatically alter the aircraft's orientation and speed, showcasing its capabilities beyond normal flight operations.

The key aspect of aerobatic flying is the deliberate nature of these movements. This sets it apart from other types of flight maneuvers that may occur incidentally during routine flying. For example, while a simple climb or descent or a single turn may occur in normal operations, they do not qualify as aerobatic because they do not involve the same level of complexity or exertion of abnormal forces.

Similarly, performing spirals around a flight path, or an isolated sharp turn, lacks the abruptness and the pronounced change in flight dynamics characteristic of aerobatics, hence they fall outside the definition. The emphasis on intentionality and the impact on the aircraft's performance are what make option B the correct choice for defining aerobatic flight.