The swing dance floor has never been more competitive. At the 2024 International Lindy Hop Championships, judges are rewarding dancers who combine vintage authenticity with technical precision—and aerials are making their biggest comeback since the 1990s revival. If you've mastered your swingouts and are ready to elevate your dancing literally, this breakdown of one advanced technique will get you there faster than scrolling through scattered YouTube tutorials.
What "Advanced" Actually Means
Before attempting any aerial, you need three foundations locked in: solid swingout timing (counts 1-8 without thinking), clear lead-follow communication through hand connection, and a trusted practice partner with spotting experience. Advanced technique isn't about flash—it's about control that makes difficult movements look effortless.
The Airplane: From Setup to Landing
The Airplane remains the most crowd-pleasing Lindy Hop aerial for good reason. When executed cleanly, the follow extends horizontally while the lead supports, creating that iconic flying silhouette. Here's how to build it safely.
The Setup (Counts 1-4)
Start with a standard swingout. On count 4, as the follow completes her triple step, the lead establishes a firm hip grip with the right hand. The left hand maintains its usual connection at the follow's back. This two-point contact is non-negotiable for stability.
Common mistake: Gripping too early disrupts the follow's triple step rhythm. Wait for the weight transfer to complete on 4.
The Launch (Counts 5-6)
Here's where 2024 technique diverges from vintage footage. Modern dancers are adding a half-rotation preparation—the lead pivots 180 degrees on count 5 while lifting, rather than the straight vertical launch seen in 1930s clips. This rotational momentum gives the follow more control over her extended position and reduces strain on the lead's lower back.
On count 6, the follow extends her left leg horizontally while tucking the right. Arms extend outward for balance. The lead's right hand supports at the hip crease; the left hand releases from the back to allow the follow's natural counterbalance.
Safety checkpoint: The follow's torso should remain parallel to the floor, not angled upward. If you see the ceiling, your core engagement has slipped.
The Landing (Counts 7-8)
The lead lowers on count 7, bending deeply through the knees to absorb impact. The follow lands on the right foot first, immediately transitioning into the triple step finish. Practice this landing separately—dropped aerials happen when dancers focus only on the flight and neglect the recovery.
2024 Variations Worth Exploring
This year's competition circuit has seen two notable evolutions:
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The Delayed Airplane: Popularized by Stockholm's Rhythm Hot Shots, the launch initiates on 6 rather than 5, creating a syncopated rhythm that hits the off-beat. Requires faster descent—don't attempt until your standard timing is automatic.
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Airplane to Tandem Charleston: Instead of the standard landing, the follow lands facing the lead's back, immediately transitioning into tandem position. This combination won the Showcase division at ILHC 2023 and is now a staple in advanced Jack & Jill competitions.
Training Recommendations
Solo drills: Follows should practice the extended position against a wall—lie on your side, extend the top leg, and hold for 30 seconds. Build to 2 minutes before attempting with a partner.
Partner progression: Start with the "Baby Airplane"—the follow keeps both feet on the ground while the lead practices the hip lift and rotation. Graduate to a low hop (6 inches) before full extension.
Essential gear: Padded flooring is mandatory. Most serious swing dancers in 2024 are training at dedicated aerials workshops rather than social dances—check your local studio's schedule or the Swing Dance Council's safety-certified events calendar.
Beyond the Airplane: Your Advanced Roadmap
Once this technique feels controlled rather than chaotic, three directions offer the strongest technical growth:
| Style | Why It Builds on Airplane Skills | 2024 Resource |
|---|---|---|
| Balboa | Close-position control translates directly to fast-tempo aerial setups | Sylvia Sykes' online intensive (March 2024) |
| Collegiate Shag | The same rotational momentum applies to Shag's signature throws | Camp Hollywood advanced track |
| Solo Jazz | Understanding your body's position in space improves partnered aerial awareness | Dax Hock's "Aerials for Follows" series |
Take the Next Step
Advanced technique isn't learned from articles alone. Find a workshop with certified instructors, commit to six months of structured practice, and film yourself weekly. The dancers dominating 2024's competitions aren't naturally gifted—they're systematically building skills that
