Dubai's first classroom in the sky

Above: Al Khaleej National School students at the Seawings base in Dubai.

The 40 minute seaplane tours on on 17 February were part of its recently launched education programme - Higher Learning. The programme was attended by over 50 students from the Al Khaleej National School at the Seawings base in Jebel Ali Beach Hotel.
 
Each flight was preceded by a 30 minute briefing designed by educators to provide the information necessary for students to derive the greatest educational benefit from the tour.

Students on the Seawings Education Programme gain a unique perspective on the history, development, architecture, economy and ecology of Dubai.

"It was a lot of fun. I never expected Dubai to look so different from the photographs and videos which we have seen in class. The best thing was I could sit next to the pilot," said Sahel who was among the first few students who took the flight.

The tour also provides an aerial perspective on the commercial, industrial and residential infrastructure located in the particular natural environment that defines Dubai.

"There is so much diversity within the landscape and Dubai's coastline. It is a very different experience for the students." said Peter Milne, an independent education consultant, who helped Seawings design the programme.

The programme has been carefully designed to ensure that the flight forms part of an overall educational experience that enhances some of the major international curriculums being offered in the UAE. The programme is of most direct benefit to geography students, but can be beneficial to students of other subjects including the sciences, history and art & design.

"We are delighted to make the inspiration and insight that comes from a Seawings flight accessible to students in Dubai. We have specially designed this Programme to combine curriculum relevant teaching with the thrill of a seaplane flight which will make for an unforgettable educational experience for each student." said Dr Nigel Rea, Chief Operating Officer of Seawings.

Established in 2007, Seawings LLC is the only seaplane tour operator in the UAE. Its fleet of three Cessna 208 Amphibious Seaplanes, offer passengers an inspiring and illuminating perspective on several of the UAE's remarkable skylines Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.