First Public U.S. Flights Will Be In Oshkosh

Yves “Jetman” Rossy, the world’s first jet-powered man, will make his first public U.S. flights this summer at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, showcasing the cutting edge of human flight at The World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration on July 29-August 4. The U.S. flights are supported by Jetman’s sponsor, the Swiss watch manufacturer Breitling. Complete details on the AirVenture flight schedule will be announced as it is finalized. Along with the appearance at Oshkosh, Jetman will fly in the U.S. at the Reno Air Races in September.

“We have eagerly followed and supported Jetman’s progress and success for several years,” said Jim DiMatteo, EAA’s vice president of AirVenture features and attractions. “He has already been featured as our cover story in EAA Sport Aviation magazine (March 2011), so to welcome him here this summer is an exciting first and part of the unique flying world you’ll see only at Oshkosh.”

The American tour follows Jetman’s successful private flight over the Grand Canyon in 2011 (pictured) and numerous demonstrations in Europe. EAA assisted Rossy with the paperwork to make the U.S. flights possible.

“I am excited to share my project with fellow enthusiasts and be a part of aviation’s biggest gathering in the world,” Rossy said from his home in Switzerland. “EAA helped me secure the experimental exhibition special airworthiness certificate for my jetwing. It will be a privilege to attend Oshkosh and demonstrate how experimental projects can push forward the boundaries of flight.”

Using a carbon-Kevlar jetwing with four engines, each of which capable of a 22-kilogram thrust, the Swiss aviator is able to propel himself through the sky at upward of 150 mph, controlled by a simple throttle in his hand. The rest of the controls are left to the human fuselage - Rossy himself - who simply uses his shoulders, body, and legs to steer, pitch, and descend. This forward-thinking technology has allowed Rossy to achieve many outstanding feats since 2008, including soaring above Rio de Janeiro, completing aerobatics from the Breitling Orbiter balloon, crossing the English Channel and flying in formation with various Breitling jets, warbirds and passenger aircraft.

For Breitling, a watch brand synonymous with aviation, both the Oshkosh and Reno events are a natural fit to celebrate the past, present, and future world of flight. The watch manufacturer joined Jetman as his main sponsor in 2010 and allowed him to achieve many aviation firsts.

“Breitling is honored to bring Jetman back to the United States,” said Breitling U.S.A. President Thierry Prissert. “His aerobatic feats exemplify the spirit of aviation, and his never-ending dedication to air exploration enhances each event in which he performs. Jetman in flight is truly incredible and something everyone should see for themselves.”

Jetman’s flights will be part of AirVenture’s air shows during the week. EAA AirVenture air shows are presented by Rockwell Collins.

(Images from file)

FMI: www.airventure.org, www.jetman.com