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Bahrain Air show 'a milestone event'

Manama, January 20, 2012

The Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS 2012), which opened yesterday, reflects the kingdom's distinguished status in organising exhibitions and conferences, said His Majesty King Hamad.

The show also displays the kingdom's interest in the aviation sector and its keenness to keep abreast of the latest technology, he said opening the event at Sakhir Air Base.

He toured the flying display circuit and was briefed on participating military and civil aircraft, as well as the most advanced air navigation systems.

His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander also took part in the ceremony.

HRH the Premier described the air show as a milestone in a series of international exhibitions hosted by Bahrain.

'This advanced show will elevate Bahrain's status on the international map in the aviation field as well as international industries,' he said, lauding success of the kingdom's aviation sector.

'The fast-paced growth of the exhibition industry in the kingdom is the outcome of Bahrain's openness and advanced relations with other countries as well as the hospitality of its people,' he said as he toured pavilions and met officials.

'The government is spurring investments and providing all requirements to boost Bahrain's status as an ideal investment destination,' HRH the Premier said.

Speaking as he toured the show, HRH the Crown Prince said the event formed one of the active points towards opening great horizons for Bahrain as countries become stronger through relations and communication with others.

He said the aviation field was one of the bridges that had great benefits for the country and represents part of the economic infrastructure.

He added the show was an important destination for investors in addition to a great opportunity to reinforce Bahrain's status despite political difficulties.

Several thousand people visited the public area to watch the flying demonstrations and enjoy various entertainment activities.

BIAS 2012 is showcasing 69 aircraft in the trade area and 15 in the public arena.

International companies such as Bombardier, Comlux, DHL and Boeing, and Bahraini companies Batelco, Gulf Air, Gulf Aviation Academy and Bahrain Airport Services are taking part in the three-day event.

Pilots from the French Air Force, the Russian Knights (the Russian Air Force display team), the UK's Red Devils (The Parachute Regiment Freefall Team) and the Royal Jordanian Air Force acrobatic team were among those who showed off their flying skills.

Organisers said public tickets for today had already sold out, but said some for tomorrow were still available.

The show features aerial displays, including breathtaking routines featuring military aircraft and stunt pilots, as well as aircraft and helicopter simulators, a vertical wind tunnel where people can simulate skydiving, display aircraft and other entertainment.

The show will conclude with a breathtaking fireworks display starting at 6pm on each day.

Twenty international defence delegations from 15 countries are expected to visit the show and civil delegations from 18 nations are attending.

Visitors will be taken to the site in regular shuttle buses operating from Bahrain International Circuit.

The show opens to the public from 10.30am to 6.15pm, with the trade section running from 9am to 5pm.  - TradeArabia News Service




Tags: | Bahrain | Air show | King Hamad |

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