Abu Dhabi Polytechnic students build Spitfire at Al Ain Aerobatic Show

The Spitfire, one of the most iconic aircraft of the WWII and on loan from the UK's Royal Air Force (RAF) Museum, is to be built before the show by six students studying engineering and aviation at Abu Dhabi Polytechnic.

The students will have a unique opportunity to experience how a plane from the 1940s was constructed, helping them understand how modern aerospace technology has developed. After the show a further six students will dismantle the aircraft.

“Al Ain Aerobatic Show is a great way to get the local community interested in the aerospace sector by seeing planes and technology up close and in person. This year, we’re honoured to be working with the RAF Museum and have their Spitfire on display. Also being able to give some budding aviation students the opportunity to have hands on experience with the aircraft is excellent,” commented Ben Bridge, managing director, Middle East & Africa, BAE Systems.

“This is a brilliant exercise for me and my fellow students. Spitfire is a legendary aircraft and to have the chance to reassemble for the public to enjoy is a great learning experience. It’s a pleasure to be able to contribute to the Al Ain Aerobatic Show with something so unique, and we are pleased to be able to work with the RAF Museum and BAE Systems on this exciting opportunity,” said Hamed Alaydaroos, student team leader, Al Ain Campus, Abu Dhabi Polytechnic.

Keith Ifould from the RAF Museum commented: "The Royal Air Force has been associated with the Gulf states since the early days of aviation before World War II. The iconic Spitfire has a unique association with the Gulf region.

"During WWII the 'Persian Gulf Fund' was established, to which local rulers and companies contributed to purchase Spitfires for the Royal Air Force to help the British war effort. In recognition of this support it is therefore very fitting to return a Spitfire to the United Arab Emirates. The Royal Air Force Museum in London is delighted to bring this iconic British fighter aircraft to the Al Ain Aerobatic Show."

The Spitfire will be reassembled before the Al Ain Aerobatic Show opens to the public, and will be on display at the BAE Systems stand for visitors. Representatives from the RAF Museum will be on hand to provide information about the aircraft.

Visitors to the show will also be able to see other exciting displays and technology from BAE Systems. The Eurofighter Typhoon swing-role jet (above) will be performing in the flying display each day with Flight Lieutenant Jamie Norris putting it through its paces and visitors can get to experience a little of what it’s like to be behind the controls of a Typhoon by sitting in and learning about the cockpit display. The Full-Size Replica of the latest Typhoon will also be on the stand for visitors to find out more about the jet.



The Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer will also be flying at the show with the RAF Red Arrows putting their Hawks (above) through their paces daily.