PHUKET: A spectacular air show is being planned for Phuket next month that will climax with a Birdman plunging from the skies onto Surin's sands where he will marry his longtime girlfriend.

How about that for a Phuket romance.

''The White Sand and Blue Sky Air Show is likely to attract thousands of onlookers,'' organiser Pat James said today.

''It will be a great show, visible from Surin and Kamala beaches.''

Phuket Flying Club's Les Vorosmarthy, who put on a breathtaking display of aero stunts during last month's Patong Carnival, will be back to light up the skies.

But the Birdman's arrival for his wedding is likely to top even that as sunset draws near.

Although the wedding itself is very much invitation only, there will be plenty of witnesses to the groom's arrival.

''The Birdman will be let loose about two kilometres offshore and then he will fly in to get married after landing right on Surin beach.''

The groom - in reality Jari Kuosma, from Finland - is a ''veteran of more than 5000 jumps,'' Mr James said. ''He asked his girl to marry him seven years ago, soon after they first met.

''And on February 25 at Surin beach, it's finally going to happen.''

The afternoon of events will be followed by the romantic hitch as the finale, Mr James said. ''All of Phuket is invited to see the groom arrive,'' he added.

''It should be quite spectacular.''

Sponsors are still needed for the flying festival, involving two stunt planes. Mr James can be contacted at 085 2580006