Al Ain Aerobatic Show: A turning point in the history of international air shows

The Show, which is held at the beginning of every year and before all other similar shows in the world, is now recognized by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (World Air Sports Federation), located in Switzerland.

Mr. Mohammed Abdullah bin Barrak Al Dhaheri, General Coordinator of the Show, underscored that the great support of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed to the show over the past years was behind its big success and worldwide reputation and also getting it recognized by the International Aviation Organization. 'This means that the coming Show will be an essential turning point in the history of international air shows, and Al Ain City will turn into a major meeting place for lovers of aerobatic shows from all over the world. We are so proud to organize this exciting event, which contributes to the promotion of Al Ain City, Abu Dhabi Emirate, and the UAE in general, and provides every year the opportunity for interchanging information and experiences.' He added.

'The great success of the Show in 2004, 2005 and 2006 made our directors and the people as well ask us to offer more innovative and thrilling activities in the 2007 session. In the forthcoming Show the winning teams and solo pilots will get cash prizes and new aviation-science activities will be held to educate the visitors and increase awareness on all aviation matters.' Al Dhaheri stated.

He also highlighted the new activities to be held at the 'Al Ain Aerobatic Show 2007'. For the first time in the world there will be on show an Illusion-76 aircraft, which is used to train astronauts on flying and loss of gravity. Reporters and visitors will have the chance to try this unique experience of swimming in space. In Russia, such experience costs US$10,000 per person, and you may need to wait for more than one year to get this chance.

Also for the first time in the world the valuable Russian Space Museum will be on show for five days, and the first satellite in history will be displayed to visitors. The surprise of the Show will be contacting the International Space Station. Astronauts from the Station will talk to the Show visitors, and this will be live on TV.

As the event has become a festival for all family members, there will be special air shows for kids. Christian and his geese from France will fly together in stunning formations and for the first time in the Middle East comic shows will be performed by professional specialist pilots.

Moreover, many of the world's finest teams and pilots on helicopters, gliders, propeller and jet engine aircraft will offer a series of breathtaking displays during the 'Al Ain Aerobatic Show 2007'.

'More surprises and unique activities for all ages will be waiting for the visitors. With such schedule along with the extensive promotional campaign recently launched by the Organizing Committee through worldwide media, we expect that tens of thousands of people from the region and the entire world will head for Al Ain City during the Show.' Al Dhaheri concluded.