uncle beat

The long-awaited Dromedarious International A380 Fair was held earlier this week, a celebration of all things related to the Superjumbo. Much to the delight of the crowds gathered for this event, the exhibition kicked off with a fly-by of a Singapore Airlines A380, making a low pass over the field. SQ was the first carrier to take delivery of this aircraft type, some thirteen years ago in October, 2007:



A most impressive view of the participants at this year’s A380 Fair!
This perspective of the lineup of sexy birds, stretching for nearly one mile, is a view looking to the east:



An unexpected sight, was this surprise visit by one of the A380 test beds!




The most prolific operator of the A380, Emirates brought this superb example up from Dubai; it is seen here giving a wonderful photo op for VIP spectators gathered at the end of the runway:




The “Big Three” carriers were fully represented at this year’s A380 Fair; here a Qatar Airways superjumbo prepares to take off, a close-up thrill for the onlookers:




Etihad graciously provided on-board tours of the A380 that they brought to the event, seen here at DRX Gate D-1-B:




Sometimes you just can't get enough! Here is a view of the lineup from east to west as seen from a drone:




While not necessarily the most flattering angle (for the plane and many people as well!), this picture shows an Air France A380 as viewed from its hind quarters:




The gorgeous AF A380 exits runway 27:




Another beauty is this Thai Airways aircraft, looking absolutely royal on touchdown at DRX in its orchid purple livery!




This Lufthansa A380 wowed the crowd with some aerial maneuvers, seen here doing a touch-and-go on runway 9:



“What might have been:” a comparative display of two Qatari A380s seen nose-to-nose, one in the original pre-delivery paint scheme, and the other proudly wearing the official colors. Which do you prefer?




In a display of typical Dromedarian indulgence, one of the A380 airplanes in long-term storage was painted in fantasy Braniff International colors!




As the show draws to a close, an A380 resplendent in British Airways’ colors is seen trundling past the airport’s catering facilities:




Concluding the show, is the early evening departure of this lovely Qantas superjumbo in new colors. This amazing airplane never fails to inspire and excite, seen here as it makes a low pass over West Bay just after taking off from DRX runway 27!




Final pass of the QF A380, during the concluding ceremonies of the show. Bon voyage, and wishing for a return of these rare and beautiful birds to the airways as scheduled flights!!