Ukrainians have been trying their luck at flying by building their own planes and taking to the skies.

Thousands of people watched in Kiev on Saturday as one team after the other jumped off an eight-metre high ramp and plunged into the murky waters of the canal.

Although none of the teams managed to fly to the other side, the participants said they were satisfied with their own attempts.

"I would like to jump one more time, even with these great guys, but according to the rules it is not allowed. It is great, all the emotions, very nice," said Zaginey Volodymyr, who flew in an aircraft resembling a giant turtle.

"It was all just great, just a pity that I was not the pilot, but it was an incredible feeling, everyone should try it next time," said Viktor Fateyev, who flew in an aircraft which looked like a flying axe.

An aircraft in the shape of a huge corn on the cob won the race. Jury members said it managed to fly a distance of 12 metres and praised the team for its creative design.