World Air Race likely in Mumbai next year

Mumbai, Nov 2: With the just concluded Formula 1 in the national capital getting a tremendous response, Mumbai may get to witness a World Air Race next year.

Organisers of the Red Bull Air Race World Championship, Austrian Trade Commission and Red Bull Air Race company met Maharashtra Tourism Minister Chhagan Bhujbal yesterday and made a presentation about the event.

They told the minister that races are planned in ten cities across the world and they wish to include Mumbai in the list.

Bhujbal assured all support to the adventure sport saying Mumbaikars will get to witness the thrill of the Air Race free of cost at Marine Drive in South Mumbai.

The race will be held for three days in the city, which according to Bhujbal will help to boost the tourism potential of the state.

"Like Formula 1, this sport does not require space, but people can experience the same thrill," Bhujbal said.

As many as 24 pilots will participate in the races in ten cities. A 400 meter foldable runway can be created in the sea near Girgaum Chowpaty for take off and landing of the participating planes.

The winner of the championship will be the one who gets highest number of points from all the ten races.

Holding the race in one city will cost about Rs 100 crore which will be borne entirely by the organisers. Due to the race, there is no threat to environment or the sea shore, Bhujbal said.

PTI