Branson to make round the world flight attempt
Sir Richard Branson is to launch an solo attempt to fly around the world without refuelling.
Branson is to be joined by his balloon record attempt partner, Steve Fossett, who is expected to pilot the futuristic aircraft.
The around the world flight without refuelling has already been completed by Dick Rutan and Jeana Yeager in an aircraft called Voyager in 1986. However, Branson’s attempt would be the first solo non-stop flight, if successful.
Branson’s aircraft, GlobalFlyer, is to be built by Scaled Compositions in California, who created and built the Voyager aircraft.
GlobalFlyer will be a strange looking aircraft that will burn less fuel than a Mini Cooper over a kilometre. The high tech design and materials will take the aircraft to 45,000 ft where it will travel at speeds in excess of 285 mph.
Voyager took 216 hours to complete the task in 1986 with both pilots taking turns in controlling the aircraft. Mr Fossett’s task will be much more difficult as he will have no assistance in the aircraft.
GlobalFlyer has not been completed yet but it is expected to make its maiden flight next year.
Sir Richard Branson’s announcement comes the day ahead of the last flight of Concord, which Branson wanted to takeover for his fleet of aircraft.
