Emirates Airlines released a new video announcing the re-opening of travel to Europe but it actually has everyone asking, Is it real?
The video features an Emirates flight attendant, who we now know to be a skydiver and stuntwoman, Nicole Smith-Ludvik, standing at the top of the Burj Khalifa rotating through cards inscribed with the messaging from the airline.
Initially, many thought nothing of the ad as this can easily be done with today’s modern advances in video editing but thanks to a video released by the website WhatsOn, we now know — it’s real. Nicole Smith-Ludvik was actually standing at the top of the world’s largest building.
Nicole and the entire production team undertook a lot of rigorous planning to pull of the stunt, which took place 2,716ft (828 metres) above ground. After reaching level 160, it took an hour and 15 minutes to climb to the top of the spire – something that only a handful of people, including Tom Cruise and HH Sheikh Hamdan, have been able to do. The space Nicole stood on had a circumference no wider than 4 feet.
“This is, without a doubt, one of the most amazing and exciting stunts I’ve ever done,” Smith-Ludvik shared on Instagram.
A casting call was put out to Emirates’ very own cabin crew and while there were some willing and capable candidates, a professional skydiving instructor was cast to ensure the highest levels of safety. Unseen on camera, Nicole was secured to a pole built on top of the spire by a harness under the Emirates uniform.
The shoot began at sunrise and took about five hours, using a drone and a helicopter to capture the footage.
“We always look to challenge the norm and push boundaries at Emirates. The calm and confidence of the cabin crew you see in the ad is an embodiment of our frontline team, serving travellers and ensuring their safety. We’re proud to be among a privileged few who have been allowed to film at the top of the Burj Khalifa by Emaar; and even prouder that we get to showcase our beautiful city, Dubai,” said Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airlines.
