Two pilots flying Flight Design CTs are back in Sion, Switzerland after circling the globe in 51 days. The two flew in formation.
The Flight Design CT aircraft were modified to carry 120 gallons of fuel for the 17-hour legs over water. The aircraft normally carry 35 gallons of fuel.
Yannick Bovier, 37, and Francisco Agullo, 41, departed their home base on the last day of April. After 51 days, the pair returned safely on June 19, after crossing two oceans and confronting sluggish bureaucrats for overflight permission.
“The story of these two pilots as reported in their log is a fascinating read,” said Flight Design USA President Tom Peghiny. The Swiss team calls their adventure Azimut 270.
Middle Eastern countries offered the duo some difficulties in getting overflight permission. Bovier and Agullo are airline pilots and were familiar in dealing with aviation authorities in many countries. They also were supported by teams at home that helped with permits and logistical efforts, as well as weather reports.