To break the world record and become the youngest pilot to fly around the world in a single-engine aircraft, is attempted by a 16.5-year-old Belgian who started the journey across five continents a few days ago from Bulgaria.
Mac Rutherford, continuing his journey, was at Heraklion Airport this morning.
The young pilot is the brother of Zara Rutherford who was in Heraklion last January, making the same journey, aiming to become the youngest female pilot to fly around the world in a single-engine aircraft.
Young Mack, who said he started dabbling in aircraft at the age of seven and began flying at the age of eleven, was inspired by his sister's project and, despite his young age, set off on a journey that will last about three months and involve visiting 52 countries on five continents.
As Nikos Makrakis, president of the Hellenic Air Sports Federation, who welcomed him at Heraklion airport, said, McRutherford is of British origin and Belgian nationality but has a French degree, which enables him to fly a plane from the age of 16.
"Here in Greece you have to be 17 years old to fly a plane. However, despite his young age, he is not afraid and wants to create a tradition for young people to do what they like, without fear." The young pilot was welcomed by the president of Heraklion Airport Harris Karouzakis, who explained that Heraklion Airport is a friendly airport both in terms of service and location, wishing the young pilot that everything goes well and that he returns safely to his homeland.
"It's a big undertaking which needs a lot of preparation and very good equipment. I think this plane has the equipment, as for the preparation, I think for a 16.5 year old boy it's quite a lot. We wish him to come full circle and return home healthy and safe. He will break a world record," Karouzakis added.
Source: Cyprus Times
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