HRH Prince Sultan Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Unveils New Book “My Life on Wings – An Aviator’s Journey” at Sand & Fun 2024
A Tribute to Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Legacy and Vision for the Future
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 20, 2024: In a moment that underscored the seamless connection between history, innovation, and progress, His Royal Highness Prince Sultan Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz, Founder and Chairman of the Saudi Aviation Club, unveiled his latest book, “My Life on Wings – An Aviator’s Journey,” at the Sand & Fun 2024 Saudi Aviation Airshow. The announcement was made amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the Middle East’s largest aviation event, drawing global aviation leaders, enthusiasts, and families.
The book chronicles Saudi Arabia’s first steps into aviation, spotlighting the historic gift of a DC-3 airplane from the President of the United States to King Abdulaziz, may God have mercy on him. It narrates the journey of Captain Joe Grant, who delivered the aircraft, and King Abdulaziz’s visionary foresight in preserving the plane as a symbol of unity and progress for the Kingdom.
“This is not just a story of an airplane; it is a story of dreams taking flight, of unity forged through innovation, and of a future envisioned by our founding King Abdulaziz,” said HRH Prince Sultan Bin Salman. “Launching this book at Sand & Fun 2024, surrounded by the spirit of aviation excellence, is a proud moment for me and for the Kingdom.”
The announcement took center stage during “Hangar Talks,” one of the most anticipated educational sessions at the airshow. HRH Prince Sultan joined other aviation luminaries to share the historical significance of aviation in Saudi Arabia’s renaissance. The event served as a bridge between the rich legacy detailed in the book and the dynamic innovations showcased at Sand & Fun 2024.
Attendees were treated to thrilling aerial displays, including the Saudi Falcons and the Phoenix Paramotors team from Poland, alongside interactive exhibits featuring the latest advancements in aviation. The synergy between past, present, and future was palpable, as families explored the “Avitainment Zone” with hands-on experiences like virtual paragliding, rocket-building workshops, and flight simulators.
The book features rare photographs of the DC-3 aircraft and exclusive insights into its pivotal role in the Kingdom’s aviation history. Readers are taken on a visual and narrative journey through the past while gaining a deeper appreciation for the foresight of King Abdulaziz and the aviation sector’s ongoing contributions to Saudi Vision 2030.
The launch of the book during Sand & Fun 2024, which boasts over 100 exhibitors and an expected audience of more than 100,000 visitors, mirrors its themes of legacy and ambition. Visitors to the airshow can experience first-hand the spirit of innovation that has propelled Saudi Arabia to the forefront of global aviation, while reflecting on the roots of this progress through HRH Prince Sultan’s captivating narrative.
The book will be available in major bookstores and online platforms in the coming months. Proceeds from sales will support initiatives by the non-profit Al-Turath Charitable Foundation, which HRH Prince Sultan founded to preserve and promote Saudi heritage.
For further details on Sand & Fun 2024, visit www.sandnfun.com.
