MEBA: FAI Desert Challenge to be held in Al Ain in 2011

The organisers of the Al Ain Aerobatic Show have confirmed the multi-discipline FAI Desert Challenge will be held at the 2011 event.

The next edition of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority's (ADTA) annual aerobatics display will take place in Al Ain, known as the "Oasis City", from 2-5 February 2011.

Comprising six world-class pilots, the Federation Aeronautique International (FAI) sanctioned Desert Challenge will see pilots battle it out in both classic and free-style challenges in front of an expected 130,000 strong crowd.

The FAI World Class Unlimited pilots will fly Mudry CAP232, Sukhoi 26 and Xtreme aircraft.

"With the addition of the Desert Challenge to a greatly enhanced display line-up and on-ground festivities, we have gone a step further in generating truly global interest for this event and our heritage heartland of Al Ain," says Faisal Al Sheikh, events manager at the ADTA, which organises the event in conjunction with the UAE Armed Forces.

Making their debuts in the Middle East will be the Baltic Bees from Russia, flying Czech Republic-made L-39C Albatros aircraft.

Also appearing will be Miss Demeanour - a Hawker Hunter built for the UK Royal Air Force in 1956.

Source: Flight Daily News