Al Ain: The world's only top-of-the-range Sukhoi fighter formation team from Russia will enthral spectators at the Al Ain 2006 Aerobatic Show starting on Wednesday.
The Russians, on five Su-27 jets, will display their skills every day as the day's last show at around sunset, said the organisers.
The Su-27 fighters show will start with formations of the five fighters for 35 minutes.
"It will follow a display of two Su-27 pilots' display aerobatics rarely seen around the world, said an official of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, adding that the team's leader would also offer a breathtaking solo performance.
Shooting thermal balloons, which are usually used to avoid heat-seeking missiles of the enemy fighters, will mark the end of each display to give an extremely stunning view, he said.
The five-day event, which is expected to attract more than 125,000 people, has jointly been organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and the UAE Air Force with the cooperation of the FAI (Federation Aeronautique Internationale).
The most thrilling part of the show is the night flying shows and display of skills in the FAI World Grand Prix Championship. The Grand Prix is an international competition that is being held for the third time in the UAE.
More than 500 pilots and technical staff, divided into many teams, from 40 countries, as well as over 100 military and civilian aircraft will be present at the show.
Shaikh Sultan Bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, said the event aims to promote Al Ain and the emirate of Abu Dhabi and would enhance efforts to boost tourism.
"It is one of the most important tourist events in the UAE and the region," he added.
He said the air show has attracted new participants from around the world. The visitors will be able to see an amazing variety of exciting displays.
New teams participating would be coming from the USA, Canada, South Africa, Japan and New Zealand, in addition to the hundreds of special solo participants from the various continents.
UAE Air Force will also be strongly in the competition, he said.
A team of international paratroopers will also attempt to set a new world record during the air show. The World Freefly Team will try to break the Guinness world record in which 42 people displayed the free fall.
The team's display this time will include 70 to 80 people in one very large formation in the UAE sky, he pointed out.
PLANS
Al Ain show to have variety entertainment
The show will be held from January 11 to 15 at Al Ain International Airport.
Visitors and participants from the UAE and all over the world can get latest information by calling 8005353 or by logging on to www.alainaerobaticshow.com.
The show will have a UAE heritage village that emphasises the country's culture.
Special entertainment facility for families and children.
Visitors will be able to see aircraft on the ground and take photos.
