This month’s Al Ain Aerobatic Show – the seventh in the annual series, will mark a closing chapter in the history of the Breitling Jet Team – the world’s first civilian format to fly jet-engined aircraft.Breitling’s seven L-39 Albatross trainer jets will make their last appearance in their distinctive blue livery as they ready for a makeover before the European aerobatics season takes flight in May.
Jacques Bothelin, the team’s creator who is about to start his 29th season, says there will be mixed emotions, and a spectacular livery farewell, among the team members when they take to the blue skies over the Oasis City of Al Ain from January 27-30.
“Rest assured we will deliver a sign-off performance to remember, featuring close formation flying, opposition passes, solo routines and synchronised manoeuvres. And we look forward to returning in 2011 with a fresh new look and perhaps some surprises too,” he said.
Bothelin adds that the team’s main driver is to entertain spectators to give them the positive emotion of theatre… “That is the reason why music and commentary are an important part of our show,” he says. “Because we give the best of ourselves, pushing ourselves towards greater daredevil antics each time, to offer the best entertainment we can. It works and the public loves what we do!”
Faisal Al Sheikh, Manager of the Major Events Division of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), which presents the spectacular with stakeholder partners, said that the Breitling team forms part of the biggest, most impressive line up of aerobatic talent Al Ain has witnessed.
“We anticipate even larger numbers of spectators than last year not only because of the line-up but also because of a number of key improvements to facilities and greater awareness of the show. Last year we achieved a record of over 130,000 spectators – we’re now looking to beat that,”he said.
The Al Ain Aerobatic Show is the world’s only aerobatic spectacle that combines military and civil aircraft, stunt displays and competitions. The 2010 show features some of the world’s top pilots from Croatia, Hungary, Italy, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK and the USA.
“On the ground as well as in the air there will be no shortage of activities to interest spectators,” adds Al Sheikh. “Enthusiasts will be able to get up close to inspect a number of aircraft used by Al Ain’s Aviation Academy; and there will be a children’s play area and a restaurant zone.”
Set against the backdrop of one of the world’s oldest desert oasis settlements, the air spectacular 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.
The event is hosted by Abu Dhabi Airports Company, organised by ADTA and the UAE Air Force and is supported by an extensive list of sponsors including Etihad, Pilatus, Al Ain Water and Abu Dhabi National Hotels (gold) along with silver sponsors Mubadala Aerospace, ADAT, Al Ain Municipality and Panasonic. Costa is the official retailer which will partner with The National, a leading UAE English language daily newspaper, to create ‘The National Costa Coffee Lounge’ – a relaxed venue to grab a coffee and paper. Mercedes Benz meanwhile will provide the official vehicles.
