Al Ain Air Championships takes to the skies in December

The 11th edition Al Ain Air Championship will be held from December 17 to 19 in a new format and has attracted some of the world's best pilots.

Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), organisers of the Al Ain Air Championship, together with the UAE Air Force (UAEAF), Abu Dhabi Airports (ADAC) and partners announced the full event programme for the region’s longest-running aerobatic spectacle on Monday.

The event will feature a new championship competition format which sees the world’s leading pilots vie for the trophy at the Al Ain International Airport.

This year’s championship will also feature one of the region’s largest entertainment villages which will include an all-new array of activities for visitors of all ages.

“We are delighted to officially reveal the full programme of this year’s  with all the exciting new activities and experiences made to the event, which we trust will attract a larger number of visitors and residents alike,” said Sultan Al Mutawa Al Dhaheri, Acting Executive Director at TCA Abu Dhabi.

“One of the region’s largest and most thrilling events will feature a new championship format, eight of the world’s best aerobatic pilots and teams, ticket and travel packages for all visitors and more to enjoy.”

Al Ain Air Championship (earlier known as Al Ain Aerobatic Air Show) has earned its spot on the sporting calendar as a ‘must-see’ event.

This unique extravaganza combines the thrill and action of some of the world’s best aerobatic performers together with impressive spectator-friendly environments.

“Al Ain Air Championship has always been on my list of ‘must-do’ events so I’m really excited to compete against some of the world’s best pilots in an extraordinary setting,” said Richard Goodwin, one of the world’s top aerobatic pilots from the UK.

Goodwin’s passion for flying came from his father, who flew fast jets in the Royal Air Force (RAF) and became famous for his aerobatic displays in both Hunter and Lightning aircraft.

After earning an engineering degree at university Goodwin followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the RAF. He picked up his first trophy for aerobatics more than 30 years ago, flying a Hawk at advanced flying training.

He will be going head-to-head with seven of the world’s most fearless daredevils including, Breitling Wingwalkers from the UK, Patrouille Reva from France, Red Bull Firestars from China and Glider FX Aerobatics from the UK.

The format sees an invited mix of teams from around the world that includes elite military pilots and civilian daredevils. Eight of the world’s teams will come together to compete for the title of ‘Grand Champion’ by a panel of expert and celebrity judges.

Teams will be awarded points based on four style categories:  Power, Grace, National Pride and ‘Wow’ Factor. 

The new championship format will also allow fans and families to get closer to the action and the world’s best pilots.

Fan voting is introduced this year in an effort to create a more interactive event where visitors get the chance to vote for their favourite team and performance on the day through an interactive mobile app.

Along with daredevil pilots, gravity-defying wing walkers, parachutists and a new-to-the-region aircraft line-up, the Al Ain Air Championship will feature the show’s biggest-ever range of family entertainment.

The Championship Village will offer a wide range of aircraft displays and runway entertainment shows such as musical performances, drifting competitions and daredevil motorcycle displays.

Fans can also visit the Championship Pit Lane, meet the pilots and see some of the world’s best aerobatic aircrafts up-close. The Village will also feature a dedicated family area and a new line-up of popular food trucks, providing all-day family fun for tens of thousands of visitors.

TCA Abu Dhabi also is working closely with key partners including Al Ain Municipality, Al Ain Zoo, Al Ain Club, Strata Manufacturing, Wadi Adventure, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club, and Etihad Airlines to deliver an unforgettable experience for all the family with event activations and the best deals and packages around for hotels and attractions.

Al Dhaheri added: “We have worked together with our partners to create a unique all-encompassing holiday for Al Ain Air Championship visitors keen to see more of Al Ain, the city of beauty.”

Tickets to the Al Ain Air Championship are available for sale and can be purchased now from www.tixbox.com.

Prices start at Dh30 per day for general admission, which give fans access to a packed schedule of race action and entertainment.

Reserved seating is available in the grandstand with tickets for Dh60 per day and a limited number of VIP passes for Dh150 per day, which give ticketholders access to the best viewing seats at the show.

Admission is free for children below six.

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