All this seems to hinge on what's meant by "aerobatic". Frankly, it
seems like a pretty pointless term to me, since it seems to depend on
the intention of the pilot rather on the manoevres flown.

In the U.S., it (aerobatic definition - bank greater than 60 degrees,
pitch greater than +/- 30 degrees) determines whether or not parachutes
are required. Other than that, I agree with you.

Tony V.
http://home.comcast.net/~verhulst/SOARING