The Competitions

Parallel Slalom
The challenging “Parallel Slalom” event takes place within a box of about 120 x 200 m. Each crew man must first pick up a bucket of water using a hand-held rope dangling from the helicopter. The pilot manoeuvres the bucket through a series of gates, requiring the helicopter to move forwards, backwards and sideways. The bucket is then placed on a small target at the end of the course. Losing water and exceeding the allocated time result in heavy penalties.

Fender Rigging
Again conducted in pairs,  “Fender Rigging”  requires precise slalom flying within an area of about 179 x 110 m. The crewman carries a load ( a boat fender ) at the end of a length of rope. The object is to fly the course with the minimum of penalties and deposit the fender into a container without striking it.

Free Style
This is a demonstration of flying skill, much appreciated by the public, generally with smoke trails to accentuate the beauty of the manoeuvres.