Air show promises top-flight fun

AL AIN // Around 130,000 people are expected to attend the Al Ain Aerobatic Show in February, organisers say, promising an even more adrenaline-charged event than previous years.

The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and the UAE Armed Forces say this year's display - held from February 2-5 - will feature more than 15 teams from four continents.

Highlights will include wing-walkers, subsonic jets, choreographed "dancers in the sky" and jet-propelled lorries.

The Federation Aeronautique International Desert Challenge is planning its largest display yet, with six of the world's top pilots competing in classic and freestyle events.

"With the addition of the Desert Challenge to a greatly enhanced display line-up and on-ground festivities, we have gone a step further in generating truly global interest for this event and our heritage heartland of Al Ain," said Faisal al Sheikh, the event manager. "The Al Ain Aerobatic Show has firmly established itself as a top-five aerobatic event globally, and we are fully committed to making sure this show continues to soar to new heights."

Russia's Baltic Bees will be making their Middle East debut, flying Czech-made L-39C Albatros jets at speeds topping 900kph.

The organisers have expanded the spectator village to include more than 50 family activities and attractions including helicopter flights, go-karts, model aircraft displays and toddler zones.

The event's website, www.alainaerobaticshow.com, is offering one enthusiast the chance to fly with one of the world-class pilots at the show.

Day tickets are Dh40 per adult and Dh25 for children aged three to 10; children under three enter free.

ealghalib@thenational.ae