Jet Suit Racing Takes Flight: Unveiling the World of Modern Superheroes

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From futuristic buildings to groundbreaking infrastructure, Dubai is known for its unique and sometimes crazy innovations. However, on Wednesday, the "City of Superlatives" took it to the next level when eight pilots, dressed like characters from Marvel's "Iron Man," flew through the skies.

They were not battling supervillains or alien warlords. Instead, against a stunning backdrop of skyscrapers and super yachts, the airborne athletes took part in the first-ever Jet Suit Race Series. This event was organized by the Dubai Sports Council and Gravity Industries, the creators of the jet suit.

According to Richard Browning, the chief test pilot of Gravity Industries based in the UK, "Unlike most races, you're racing in three dimensions. There are pilots above, below, and all around you, making it a truly unique and exhilarating experience."

The eight pilots competed in a thrilling race around a one-kilometer course with 12 giant inflatable obstacles in the water. Each heat determined the leaderboard, leading up to an exciting final round. The races were fast-paced, lasting only about 90 seconds each.

According to Browning, the event was filled with excitement and chaos. There were disqualifications, unexpected moments, and even a pilot ending up in the water. Despite the challenges, it was all part of the fun and made for a truly memorable experience.

He believes that the event will motivate young scientists and engineers to dream big, as he says, "Most technology seems impossible until it becomes a reality."

Gravity Industries is currently testing its jet suits in preparation for the first jet suit race series scheduled to take place in Dubai in February 2024.

Gravity Industries Ltd / Toby Patterson

‘The power of a Bugatti’ in a backpack

Gravity’s technology utilizes a 3D-printed polymer, aluminum, and titanium suit with five engines. There is a large engine on the back, along with a pair of "micro jet engines" on each arm. This suit is capable of lifting a person into the air, with a power equivalent to that of a Bugatti Veyron sports car packed into a 30-kilogram (66-pound) backpack.

Pilots can control their flight path by adjusting the position of their arms. For instance, pointing their arms downwards allows them to ascend, while lifting their arms to the side enables them to descend. The jet suit runs on aviation fuel or diesel, and can reach speeds of up to 136 kilometers per hour (85 miles per hour), as per Browning's personal record.

As with any thrilling sport, there is always a certain level of risk involved. Jet suit crashes are often compared to falling off a motorcycle by Gravity, the company behind the jet suits. To reduce the risks, the jet suits are flown low to the ground over water or grass.

Gravity Industries founder Richard Browning says his record for top speeds with the jetpack is over 130 kilometers per hour.

Gravity Industries founder Richard Browning says his record for top speeds with the jetpack is over 130 kilometers per hour.

Gravity Industries Ltd / Toby Patterson

“When we perform over water, if we make a mistake, we simply fall into the water, which adds a bit of excitement. It can be costly to fix, but everyone stays safe,” Browning explains.

Taking the top spot at the showcase was Issa Kalfon, Gravity’s deputy head of flight training and a former professional gymnast. Following closely behind were British pilots Paul Jones and Freddie Hay.

While Kaflon has participated in over 30 Gravity events and demonstrations, not all of the pilots were as experienced. Currently, jet suits are not officially recognized in any aviation categories, so they do not require specific permissions. However, Browning mentions that they collaborate closely with aviation regulatory bodies, such as the CAA in the UK and FAA in the US, to ensure they adhere to existing rules and safety measures. In 2020, there was a tragic jetpack accident in Dubai, although it did not involve a Gravity suit.

Ahmed Al Shehhi, a thrill-seeker and skydiving enthusiast, proudly represented the UAE in the race. He stood out as the only competitor who was not part of the Gravity team of pilots. Al Shehhi had his first experience with a jet suit just three weeks prior to the race. He underwent a rigorous 12-day training program in the UK. During the training, participants start off practicing with a safety tether system before advancing to free flight.

According to Browning, “If you added up the full minutes that he’s had with the engines running, it’s probably 25 minutes.” He emphasized how astonishingly fast people can adapt to using a jet suit.

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More than entertainment

The showcase was created to demonstrate the various capabilities of the jet suit beyond just entertainment. Richard Browning, a former Royal Marines reservist, is collaborating with industries such as search and rescue, medical, and military defense to incorporate the jetpack into their operations.

In 2020, the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) trialed Gravity Industries’ jet suits in the Lake District, reducing a 25-minute hike to a 90-second flight. The company gained attention again in 2021 when the British Royal Navy and Royal Marines conducted a three-day test with Commando Royal Marines off the southern coast of the UK to facilitate rapid boarding of ships at sea, a task usually carried out by helicopters.

Test pilots take off in Gravity Industries jet suits ahead of the inaugural race, in Dubai in February 2024.

Gravity Industries Ltd / Toby Patterson

Browning states that they train special forces and medical responders to navigate any terrain, day or night, overcoming obstacles like wire, mud, mines, and water. They are prepared to reach any location on the planet, even in extreme weather conditions that may ground most helicopters, in order to complete their mission and safely extract themselves.

In addition to Browning's efforts, other companies are also innovating human mobility. JetPack Aviation, based in California, claims to have developed the world's first jetpack, which has been featured in television and film productions. Meanwhile, Indian startup Absolute Composites is working on military applications in collaboration with the national army.

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According to Browning, the showcase is only the start of the sport. Gravity intends to organize a championship in Dubai next year, featuring a minimum of 12 competitors. Browning is optimistic that this event will inspire individuals and cities worldwide to consider the potential of this technology.

"This technology feels like something out of a science fiction movie," Browning explains. "Many of our audience members compare it to iconic characters like 'The Rocketeer', 'Ironman', or the 'Jetsons'. People often tell us, 'I've been dreaming about this since I was a kid, and you've made that dream a reality,' which is really amazing."

Editor's P/S:

The Jet Suit Race Series in Dubai is an extraordinary display of innovation and human ingenuity. Witnessing these "Iron Man"-like pilots soaring through the skies while navigating obstacles is a testament to the transformative power of technology. It's thrilling to envision the potential applications of this technology beyond mere entertainment, such as search and rescue operations, medical emergencies, and military defense.

This event not only showcases the incredible advancements in human mobility but also inspires a sense of wonder and possibility. It's a reminder that with imagination and determination, even the most seemingly futuristic concepts can become a reality. By pushing the boundaries of human flight, the Jet Suit Race Series opens up endless opportunities for future innovations and advancements.