Aspiring pilots get their chance at Al Ain Aerobatic Show

Rashed Thani Al Muhairi, official FAI member for UAE Aeromodelling, who runs the remote control aircraft maintenance centre at Al Ain Aerobatic Show, is inviting aspiring pilots to show off their skills on a specialised simulator, with his staff on hand to give valuable pointers.

"We have a fully fledged simulation programme to help aviation fans get a feel for what it's like to pilot a plane. In addition, for those who are experienced, we have a team on hand who can help you hone your skills and get you ready for your first flight,"

said Al Muhairi.

With a wide range of remote control aircraft on display in Al Ain, the UAE's Garden City, ranging from the one third size model of the BAE SYSTEMS hawk trainer, as used by the UAE Air Force, to smaller sporty aircraft, Al Muhairi said they have something for everyone.

"Flying for many people is a dream, however not all can actually get behind the cockpit of a full size aircraft. However, no matter your age or capability, you can always take to the skies with a remote control plane," added Al Muhairi.

Scale models are like their larger cousins in almost every way, from the engine components to the fuel they use - the Jet A1 - which you'll find in many commercial aircraft. And don't be surprised if the next time you look up at the Al Ain Aerobatic Show, you see an Airbus A380 circling overhead.

"In 2007 we brought a scale version of the A380. It is one of the world's most sophisticated remote control aircraft, and cost AED500,000 just to put together. However, it isn't just about the biggest and the best, there are many smaller aircraft which serve really well for people wanting to get started," said Al Muhairi.

More than a dozen remote control aircraft will be flying daily at the show - which is 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, and organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and the UAE Air Force.

However, if it's bigger aircraft you are interested in, more than 15 display teams from around the world will be lighting up Al Ain's skies with a host of manoeuvres including the loop, the aileron roll and the hammerhead.

Daily tickets for the show, which runs at Al Ain International Airport every afternoon until Saturday January 31st, are Dhs40 per adult and Dhs25 for children between three and 10 years, children under three enter free.

The Al Ain Aerobatic Show 2009 has a high-profile sponsorship line-up including Pilatus, Abu Dhabi National Hotels, Etihad Airways and Al Ain Mineral Water as Gold sponsors; Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies and Tourism Development & Investment Company as Silver sponsors and Emirates Motor Company as the official vehicle sponsor. It is supported by Abu Dhabi Airports Company.