INTERMEDIATE
Your Next Step in Competitive Flying
The Intermediate Class is where many pilots take their first big step into judged competition.
Designed exclusively for UK pilots, this class combines a supportive environment with a structured scoring format - giving you the perfect platform to grow your confidence, sharpen your skills, and experience the thrill of performing to an audience.
If you’re ready to push your flying further, this is where it starts.
Who Can Enter?
The Intermediate Class is open to:
- UK pilots only
- Pilots progressing from Sport-level flying
- Developing flyers wanting structured feedback
- Anyone looking to experience competition without jumping straight to Pro
This class is welcoming, high-energy, and ideal for building your competitive style.
Competition Format
Intermediate pilots complete:
Two flights:
– One on Saturday
– One on Sunday
Your lowest score is dropped and your highest score becomes your final result
Flight Requirements:
- Duration: 2:50–3:10
- Music: Submit at least 7 days before HeliFest
- No sets required
A simple, fair structure designed to let you focus on your performance.
Judging Criteria
Intermediate pilots are judged across three equal categories, each worth 33.3% of the final score.
This format is clear, balanced and ideal for developing competitive ability.
1. Technicality
Your flying skill.
Judges look for:
- Control and smooth transitions
- Manoeuvre difficulty
- Range and variation
- Clean execution
- Minimal repetition
A technically clean flight feels deliberate and confident.
2. Musicality
Your connection to the music.
Judges score:
- Timing and rhythm
- Choreography that fits the soundtrack
- Use of musical accents or transitions
- Flow and structure
A strong musical routine feels like a performance - not just a flight.
3. Excitement
The entertainment factor.
Judges look for:
- Energy and pace
- Height and direction changes
- Visual impact
- Audience engagement
- Confident, expressive flying
If your routine grabs attention, it will score highly.
Why Fly Intermediate?
Because it gives you:
- A supportive, structured introduction to competition
- A clear understanding of how to build a strong routine
- A chance to test your skills in front of an audience
- The foundation needed to eventually move into Pro Class
- A fun, friendly, motivating competition atmosphere
Many of today’s top pilots began in this class.
How to Prepare
To get the most out of your flights:
- Choose your music early
- Build a routine with clean transitions
- Practise timing and musical accents
- Balance technicality with excitement
- Watch previous Intermediate routines for inspiration
Progress comes from flying with intention.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to perform, the Intermediate Class is ready to welcome you.