Al Ain: The Bleriot XI, the world's oldest plane, will make a regional debut at Al Ain Aerobatic Show later this month, among a number of contestants coming to display breathtaking flying stunts.
The plane was built in the early years of last century and it crossed the English Channel from Calais to Dover in 36.5 minutes, securing a place in history books, said the show organisers.
The Bleriot XI also performed its first flying loop in 1913 at one of the first ever air shows in Europe. "This plane has been making a regional [Middle East] debut at the Al Ain International Aerobatics Show a century later," said the organisers.
Amazing spectacle
Mohammad Abdullah Bin Barrak Al Daheri, General Coordinator of the show, said the Al Ain 2008 has a sterling reputation for putting on an amazing spectacle, showing off some of the world's most fascinating aircraft and the pilots lightening quick skills in a four day festival.
Jointly organised by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) and the UAE Air Force and Air Defence with the cooperation of the World Air Sports Federation, the event will be held from January 24 to 27 at Al Ain International Airport. More than 110 aircraft would compete in the four-day family extravaganza, he said.
The Royal Jordanian Falcons in a formation of Extra-300 aircraft return to the emirate's skies to woo onlookers, as will the Saudi Arabian Green Hawks and world-renowned aerobatic legends, Italy's Pioneer Team, which will be making their event debut.
Smiles galore are also expected with a comedy air display team, The Alabama Boys, confirming they'll be in town to show off their crazy aerospace antics.
"We have death defying stunts coupled with hysterical flying displays. At the end of the day, this is all about enjoyment for spectators and to help raise the emirate of Abu Dhabi's profile on the international stage. Something I believe this event does very well," added Al Daheri.
