UAE launches the nation inaugural commercial aerobatic flight experience in Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah has introduced the UAE’s inaugural commercial aerobatic flight experience, reaching speeds of up to 400 kmph. ActionFlight, the aviation adventure tourism company, received regulatory approval a few weeks ago and has since operated several commercial aerobatic flights.
The flights depart from RAK International Airport and fly from 2,000 to 6,000 feet, providing breathtaking views of the desert, mountains, and coastline between Al Rams, Cove Rotana, and Marjan Island. Rotations, rolls, hammerheads, avalanches, inverted flights, and vertical ascents of up to three thousand feet are all part of the aerobatic repertoire.
According to Wayne Jack, who is both the CEO and creator of ActionFlight and the head of flight operations, the passenger flights are like an intermediate-level aerobatic experience with G-force interactions. Hammerhead stall spins are a hallmark of the flights, which culminate in a vertical rise until gravity takes control, and then a fall back to level flight. Climbing speeds may exceed 400 kmph, and G-forces can be anywhere from +4 (the equivalent of four times gravity) to -2 (the feeling of being weightless).
ActionFlight operates two EXTRA 330 aircraft, known as the 'Ferrari of the skies,' specifically designed for advanced competition aerobatics with certified load factor limitations of plus and minus 10G. Jack emphasized that while the aerobatic flights offer an adrenaline rush, the goal is not to frighten passengers but to provide a taste of the aircraft's capabilities, G-forces, and the aerobatic world.
Aerobatic flights with ActionFlight are priced at Dh2,399 and last approximately 20 minutes. The overall experience, from pick-up to airport drive, flight briefing, and flight suit fitting, takes about three hours. The adventure begins with a comprehensive briefing by the pilot, followed by passengers donning flight suits and headsets or helmets before boarding. The flights are operated during daylight hours, with the first departure at 7 a.m. and the last at 5 p.m.
The experience is designed to provide passengers with a thrilling ride without overwhelming them. The pilot communicates with passengers throughout the flight, tailoring the experience to their comfort levels. Wayne Jack and Pete Lindsay, former Emirates Boeing 777 pilots, currently serve as the pilots for ActionFlight, bringing their extensive aviation experience to the aerobatic adventure.
