Malta has beaten stiff competition from four other countries to be named by Aero GP as host venue for the first “Aero Grand Prix” of 2006: the world’s newest and most dramatic globally-televised motorsports series.
Aero GP is a revolution in international motorsports, comprising three different disciplines of aerial competition, with super high performance aircraft flown by some of the best pilots in the world.
The Aero GP of Malta, to be held at the Grand Harbour on 10 September, will be the first of three Grand Prix competitions this year.
The first-ever Aero GP competition was held in Slovenia in 2005, and was an outstanding success.
The series is expected to grow to eight Grand Prix destinations, spread over four continents, by 2007.
Aero GP is broadcast on TV in more than 100 countries around the world.
Last year’s competition reached more than 350 million homes and is anticipated to reach 500 million for this 2006 series.
The first discipline in this battle for air supremacy is an air race with up to eight airplanes racing together, faster than Formula One cars and in a tighter circuit just metres above the ground, while pulling as many as 10Gs.
These incredible men in their flying machines will then battle it out in live air-to-air combat – real one-on-one dogfights.
Finally, the pilots will contend in competitive target bombing and stunt flying duels.
The organisers of the Aero GP have chosen the Grand Harbour as the site for the competition on 10 September, 2006, with qualifiers and training held during the previous three days. Admission is free of charge.
The organisers hope to offer Malta a solid and far-reaching marketing platform from which to showcase Malta’s great qualities worldwide.
Bruce Dickinson, the world-famous lead singer of iconic rock band Iron Maiden, has agreed to be host and commentator of the event.
Dickinson, himself an experienced pilot, is also expected to take to the skies in his own aircraft and provide dramatic live commentary from the air during the event, after which he will join and meet the spectators on the ground.
Founder and Managing Director of the Aero GP, Jeff Zaltman, said “we are thrilled about holding our first 2006 Grand Prix in Malta – it was an easy decision to make after visiting this beautiful country and, most importantly, the positive support we have been receiving thus far has been overwhelming.”
Zaltman cited a growing list of public and private organisations as being extremely helpful in the preparation and efficient planning of the event, with efforts led by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association – Malta (AOPA) under the direction of Dr Ivan Gatt.
Zaltman noted that “the AOPA, which shares our goal of bringing air sports into the mainstream of the sporting world, has been instrumental in attracting the Aero GP to Malta.
“Malta was chosen for its stunning landscapes, noteworthy architecture, friendly atmosphere and its willingness to explore new opportunities,” he added.
Mike Harnden, Aero GP’s Operations Director pointed out that “we will offer Malta a historic event and a unique experience which will be fun, safe and memorable for everyone… we hope we have found a home for Aero GP for many years to come.”
Tony Parente, Aero GP’s Sales and Marketing Director, highlighted that opportunities for companies to sponsor the event still exist and media partnerships may also be available.