Returned To Chile After First Try At Pacific Crossing

Bill Harrelson's record attempt to circumnavigate the globe over both the North and South poles has hit a snag. He departed Punta Arenas Chile on December 31st for leg three of his trip, bound for Hamilton, New Zealand by way of the South Pole. He and his team kept a careful watch on the weather--especially the winds--and ultimately decided safety required a turn back to Chile.

Following the decision to return to Chile, the team posted the following:

"It's been a very long flight for Bill. Stronger winds than forecasted made reaching southern NZ questionable. He successfully made the pole so he doesn't have to go back again. He is now scheduled for at least two nights rest before looking at SCCI NZHN direct which is still a formidable challenge.

"6ZQ needs some work and troubleshooting. Autopilot issues have come up and communication issues with both HF and Iridium. ZQ GC (it's not clear who "GC" is from the Facebook page--Editor) is working to get some answers and parts if needed as he finishes off this mostly successful Leg 3. We will remind Bill that anybody who can build their own plane, fly it to the South Pole and back, and live to tell about [it] has done something pretty remarkable."

Since Harrelson was successful in reaching the South Pole he is now free to take whatever route he chooses to his next landing site, Hamilton, NZ. His team has made it clear he will not be returning to the South Pole, so his next leg will likely be a (mostly) direct route to NZ.

The latest difficulty appears to be acquiring landing permission at NZ. According to updates on Facebook, "Bill is healthy and well-rested. They've sorted the technical glitches, and N6ZQ has made a successful test flight. He and his team are currently considering their options."

(Images provided by Bill Harrelson)

FMI: Bill Harrelson Facebook Page