Introduction

In March 2005 the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer attempted to become the first jet-powered plane to fly non-stop, non-refuelled around the world. The aircraft was designed by aviation pioneer Burt Rutan, flown by American adventurer Steve Fossett, with Sir Richard Branson standing by as reserve pilot. The gruelling flight would take almost three days, covering more than 22,000 miles, earning its pilot and ground crew a place in the history books along the way.