Logistics in full flight for largest Al Ain International Aerobatic Show

Being held under the patronage of HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the four-day Al Ain extravaganza - which is being held from 24-27 January - has attracted over 110 aircraft from 40 countries and is expecting 150,000 spectators.

'Whilst work on organising the Al Ain International Aerobatics Championship is in essence a 12 month programme, the physical setup really begins to take shape in the weeks running up to the event,' said Ahmed Al Dhaheri, Head of Site Committee, Al Ain International Aerobatics Championship 2008.

'This year's event is no different as we look to stage the best event to date. We are confident that the logistical requirements will live up to the Championship's breathtaking flying displays and stunning aerobatic competition.'

Work is currently being carried out to prepare the static park for all the aircraft that will be on display throughout the event. This year will see some unique and exciting flying machines descend on the Garden City including the world's oldest plane - the Bleriot XI - which has been flying for nearly 100 years. A dedicated display area will also be available for spectators to get up close to the aircraft used by Al Ain's Aviation Academy.

And in a specialised educational initiative, Sharjah's Al Mahatta Museum will be participating this year with a host of historical models from the aviation industry, giving a chronological insight into the history of flight.

Some of 2008's facilities have also been increased to accommodate the extra influx of spectators expected over the four days. The children's play area has been expanded and the restaurant zone has nearly doubled in capacity. In addition, the media centre has been boosted as the Al Ain International Aerobatics Championship readies to receive the world's aviation press.

Organisers of the event have also allocated dedicated parking spaces for visitors, sponsors and families to help facilitate easier entry into the site.

With a wealth of pilots and teams from a host of countries, including, Sweden, the USA, Italy, the UK, Turkey, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Austria, and Romania, the stage is nearly ready for a gripping extended weekend of thrills and excitement.

The Al Ain International Aerobatics Championship 2008 has attracted a high-profile sponsorship line-up including Etihad Airways and ADNOC Distribution as Platinum sponsors; Pilatus, Etisalat, Al Ain Mineral Water and Abu Dhabi National Hotels as Gold sponsors, and Al Ain Mall, BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce as Silver sponsors.