Capetonians may well get stiff necks from looking up at the skies over the Heritage Day long weekend of 24 to 26 September, with over 80 military and civilian aircraft taking part in air shows as part of the Sixth Africa Aerospace & Defence exhibition.

The AAD 2010 exhibition, which is a premier event on the world's aviation and defence calendar, takes place at Ysterplaat air base in Milnerton from 21 to 25 September.

The first three days are trade days for more than 250 exhibitors from 30 different countries, but the show is open to the public on Friday 24 September and Saturday 25 September.

The last AAD expo two years ago was a phenomenal success, with thousands of Capetonians flocking to see some of the world's most exciting planes up close, and witness fighter jets and other types of planes overhead, as well as aerobatic displays, parachute jumps and vintage aircraft.

The City of Cape Town will once again be assisting with traffic services to direct the thousands of people expected to attend.

The local community has been advised that the show will result in an increase in noise levels over the two days.

Apart from the air shows, the open days will also feature vehicle demonstrations and plenty of interesting exhibitions.

The event is not limited to an air show, and several naval vessels from the South African, Brazilian and Indian navies will also be on display at the V&A Waterfront.

The trade days will feature new exhibitors, including the USA and China, and are expected to stimulate business for local and international companies involved in civil and military aerospace, security, landward defence and maritime technologies.

There will also be a youth development programme, where youngsters can play on flight and vehicle simulators and build models. Industry representatives will be on hand to provide more information about careers in the aerospace and defence industries.

In order to cater for the crowds, the organisers have organised numerous food stalls and a beer garden. Visitors will be allowed to bring picnic baskets, but no open fires will be allowed. No alcohol, firearms or pets are permitted in the show grounds.

There will also be a medical/first aid facility, access for disabled people, a lost child centre, and sufficient toilets.

Parking is available in the Ysterplaat area, and a free shuttle will operate regularly from the Ratanga Junction parking area.

Visitors are advised to buy pre-paid discounted tickets from the Cape Town Tourism offices, the NSRI or South African Air Force Museum at Ysterplaat.

Tickets are R50 for adults and R40 for children under 12 and pensioners. On Friday 24 September and Saturday 25 September, gates open at 06:00 and close at 17:00.

For more information, call the AAD2010 Call Centre on 021 508 6414, e-mail aad2010@ysterplaat.org.za or visit the website: www.aadexpo.co.za.