Pipistrel Aircraft Engaged In Circumnavigation Attempt With A Science Twist

A one-year around the world flight aboard a Pipistrel Virus SW aircraft, organized by "Wings for Science" in association with renowned Universities and Research Institutes, is progressing according to schedule according to a report out of Luxembourg where the project is based. The project is supported by AOPA-Luxembourg and many local AOPA's around the world.

Jean Birgen, an AOPA-Luxembourg board member, was in charge to assist the pilots to overcome administrative hurdles, such as landing and over-flight authorizations. Erny, a retired Met Officer, prepared the weather forecast for the team during its flight around the world.
 
The flight originated from Luxembourg on 1st June 2012 and is due to arrive on 17th June 2013 in Le Bourget/France, during the 50th Paris Airshow. The purpose of the around the world flight is to offer an aerial capacity to science. For the past year, Clémentine and Adrien, the two AeroSport pilots, have harvested scientific data in the air for the benefit of local research laboratories. You are able to see the Pipistrel aircraft and meet the pilots during the “Luxembourg Day” on 20th June 2013 in Paris at the Le Bourget Air Show.
 
The crew was last reported to be in Amman, Jordan, on their way back to Europe to meet the arrival deadline. The stated goal of the mission is to provide local public research projects with an exclusive airborne capability.

(Map provided by Wings for Science)

FMI: www.wingsforscience.com