Al Ain aerobatic show faces potential weather blow

High winds and unseasonal rain are threatening the famous Al Ain International Aerobatic air show which is due to formally open on Wednesday.

A media preview day whcih is due to take place tomorrow (Tuesday) has been cancelled by organisers on the grounds of health and safety.

At the weekend there were huge problems at the showground when gale force winds ripped apart branding and display areas.

It is understood that many of the aerobatic teams - some which have flown from Europe to participate - have been unable to conduct validation flights - the rehearsal flight that allows the display controllers to licence the team to take part in a public display. Without validation flights a team cannot take part.

With forecasts showing winds of up to 45-knots likely to hit the Al Ain area over the next 24 hours, the chances of the pilots validating before the official opening is looking remote although an early morning vaidation could be possible if the weather improves.

More information will be given as soon as it is released by ADTA, the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority which is organising the event in conjunction with F&E, the organisers of the Dubai Air Show.