The seventh annual Al Khor Fly-In, a two-day affair that gives visitors a chance to get up close and personal with aircraft, pilots and all other things aviation, opens this morning at the Al Khor airport.

The event, which open to the public and a popular draw for families, includes a chance to ride in small aircraft (for a fee) and explore parked planes from across the GCC. Snacks will be sold, though last year, the choice was limited.

One major goal of the fly-in, which has drawn big-name sponsors like Qatar Airways, RasGas and Barwa Bank, is to keep young people interested in aviation. Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamad al-Thani, chairman of the event’s organizing committee, said, as quoted in the Gulf Times:

“The aviation sector is undoubtedly a vital component in today’s fast-paced and modern societies. Therefore it is imperative that we sustain the interest of the next generation into such a vital sector through fun-filled, entertaining yet highly educational events such as this.

I am certainly thrilled and excited that the youth and their families can enjoy an even bigger event together while at the same time learning a lot more about aviation.”

Gates will be open from 9am to 4:30pm today and Saturday, according to the website, which also has directions.

Who’s going? Thoughts?