Circumnavigation Attempt Began November 18

A daring adventure by physically challenged pilots to fly around the world is underway. Flight Design CEO Lars Joerges announced that the German company is a contributing sponsor to the undertaking. The flight will be conducted using a CTLS aircraft.

The world flight, which took off Sunday from Geneva, Switzerland will visit 40 countries, 5 continents, travel more than 42,500 nautical miles will include “150 stops to meet, share, inspire and promote the inclusion of disabled people worldwide,” according to the organizers. The flight has a goal to raise funds for Handicap International and is also sponsored by the Lions Clubs International, a fraternal organization that raises money for worthy causes.

Handiflight is a non-profit association formed in Gruyère, Switzerland in 2007. It has become the biggest fly-in for disabled pilots from all around the world. After 10 years of successful events, Handiflight is tackling a new goal: “To fly around the world to explore new horizons, look for new challenges, combat prejudices and promote the inclusion of disabled people.”

“We met with Daniel Ramsier one of the organizers of the Handiflight,” said Joerges. ”We were very inspired by his vision and wanted to be part of this adventure.” Joerges continued, “We will be supporting the aircraft and we wish them success and best wishes for the flight.” Primary pilots Paolo Pocobelli, Guillaume Féral and Mike Lomberg will lead an international team of more than 15 pilots with physical disabilities.

Upon the completion of this flight it will mark the third flight around the world for a CT-series aircraft. The first time occurred in 2007 by two pilots from India to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of the Indian Air Force. The second round-the-world flight was Azimuth 270, a flight by Yannick Bovier and Francisco Agullo, two Swiss Airbus pilots who flew a westward flight around the equator of the Earth in 2010. Soon will begin this great and inspiring flight by Handiflight!

(Image provided with Flight Design news release)

FMI: handiflight.com/en