Profiteroles Over Kuwait – Our First Middle East Skyshow

Back in 2000, we received a call from our now long-time business partner in Egypt. He’d secured an aerial skyshow contract in Kuwait as part of the annual HALA Festival—a cultural celebration honouring those lost in war and showcasing the spirit of Kuwait through art, music and spectacle. This was no small job. We had just weeks to assemble a team of 16 and ship 12 motorised paragliders (MPGs), plus all support equipment, into Kuwait. The plan: two full weeks of formation flights and banner tows over beaches, stadiums and central Kuwait City.

The Challenges

There were plenty. Sourcing and prepping 12 MPG units was a logistical headache. Then came visas, freight, pilot scheduling and training—all before we even got off the ground.

One major cultural consideration: Kuwait’s strict no-alcohol laws. Possession of alcohol or drugs can lead to jail. A big shift for our Aussie crew, who were used to unwinding with a beer after a day’s flying.

The Great Profiterole Solution

With no pub in sight, the boys made the most of their 5-star hotel and its kitchen staff. It began as a joke—profiteroles for breakfast—but the chefs happily obliged. Within days, trays of custard- and chocolate-filled pastries were arriving each morning to much excitement.

By the end of the trip, what they missed in beer they made up for in cream. Most added a few extra kilos—“profiterole belly” became the running joke. Still, morale was high, and the hotel staff grew fond of our crew’s humour, energy and good manners. Hugs and photos marked a heartfelt farewell.

The Flying

Flying in Kuwait posed new challenges—especially flying 8–10 MPGs in tight formation while towing banners daily for two weeks. This had never been done at such scale before.

Our routes took us across Kuwait City, along the coastline and around packed stadiums. The visual impact was striking. At low altitude, in the intense desert heat, pilots had to stay laser focused. Thermals and midday turbulence meant flights were restricted to mornings and afternoons.

A Taste of Kuwait

When not flying, the crew explored Kuwait’s Old City and night markets. For anyone who hasn’t been, these souks are a sensory feast—spices, handwoven fabrics, hammered metals and exquisite gold work. A must-see.

A Mission Accomplished

An unforgettable adventure—our first campaign in the Middle East and the first time MPGs were flown in formation at this scale while towing banners. The event was a huge success, both technically and culturally. We came home in one piece (if slightly heavier), full of stories, new friendships and a deep appreciation for Kuwait and its people.

Sohn Herbert.