The CISM Qatar 2025 World Military Parachuting Championship is nearing its conclusion at Umm Shakhout Airport, with over 320 athletes from 30 nations competing. The championship, a showcase of skill and precision, has been impacted by recent weather conditions, leading to postponements. Despite the challenges, the event has also provided educational opportunities, as Qatari school students recently explored the facilities and learned about parachuting.
Competitors have engaged in several disciplines, including four-way formation, style competitions, and target landing exercises. Organizers are working to complete the remaining events, notably the target landing competition, which is scheduled for today, weather permitting. The championship is set to conclude tomorrow, marking another milestone for Qatar in hosting international sporting events.
Umm Shakhout Airport Hosts Global Parachuting Event
Umm Shakhout Airport, located north of Doha, has been transformed into a hub for international military competition. The parachuting championship, organized by the International Military Sports Council (CISM), is a demonstration of the dedication and expertise within military air sports. Qatar’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence is evident in its robust support for this event and the ongoing achievements of its athletes.
Weather Delays and Adaptability
Organizers have faced difficulties due to strong winds, exceeding 25 knots, and the threat of a storm. This required two consecutive days of postponements, prioritizing the safety of all participants. First Lieutenant Hamad Rashid Al-Marri noted that the athletes are accustomed to facing weather-related disruptions and maintain focus despite the delays.
Qatar’s Rising Profile in Air Sports
The Qatar Air Show team has garnered significant international recognition, securing five Guinness World Records. These accomplishments include the largest aerial canopy formation in Florida (2018) and Portugal (2021), alongside impressive pyrotechnic displays in the United States in 2022 and 2025. First Lieutenant Abdullah Al-Kuwari highlighted how this success continuously enhances Qatar’s standing in military and aerobatic parachuting.
Beyond the competition, a key aspect of the championship has been its outreach to the local community. Several Qatari schools – Ahmed School, Mansour Primary School for Boys, Khalid Bin Al-Waleed Preparatory School, and Doha Secondary School for Boys – participated in visits to the airport. Students toured the Air Sports Museum, explored the Fan Zone, and observed the parachute landing areas.
The educational experience extended to hands-on activities, including opportunities to experience paragliding and sit in aircraft cockpits. These interactions aimed to inspire the next generation of Qatari air sports enthusiasts. The visits were designed to provide a unique and memorable learning experience for the students.
Ensuring fair play throughout the championship is the responsibility of the Qatar Anti-Doping Committee. They have been collecting samples from all parachutists in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) protocols. This commitment to integrity underscores the seriousness with which the event is conducted.
First Lieutenant Abdullah Al-Khawar emphasized the organizational successes of the championship, particularly its support for young Qatari parachutists and the smooth execution of operations. He noted the importance of providing a platform for emerging talent within the country’s sports sector.
As the championship nears its end, organizers remain hopeful for favorable weather conditions to allow the completion of the target landing competition. The final results and overall standings will be determined upon the conclusion of all scheduled events. The event’s legacy will likely extend beyond the competition itself, fostering greater interest in air sports within Qatar and strengthening its position as a host nation for international athletic events.
