Saudi Hawks leave crowd awe-struck

Al Ain: The Saudi Hawks yesterday staged a spirited display of formation aerobatics for the spectators at Al Ain Aerobatic Show.

The Hawks, the aerobatic team of the Royal Saudi Air Force, has been a regular feature of the Al Ain Air Show for many years, coming with new manoeuvres every season.

"This year, spectators will get to see some brand new moves from us," said Major Abdullah Al Gamdi, 88th Squadron Commander and Saudi Hawks' leader. He said the team has two distinct seasons including a six-month display season and a development session.

The team develops new manoeuvres for the next show in the second half of the year, said Major Al Gamdi before climbing into the cockpit of his British-made Hawk Mk.65 for the team's first display at the 2009 edition of Al Ain Aerobatic Show.

Unlike some display teams, he said, the Saudi Hawks change their manoeuvres every season and that keeps them in high demand throughout the Gulf.

"This year there is the possibility that we will fly at RAF Waddington International Airshow," said Major Al Gamdi.

Faisal Al Shaikh, a senior official of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, said the Saudi Hawks bring a vital regional element.