Fossett reaches half-way point on round-the-world flight attempt

0 Comments | AFP, March, 2005

SALINA, United States (AFP) — American adventurer Steve Fossett reached the half-way point while flying over India, in his attempt to make the first solo, non-stop flight around the world without refueling and with very little sleep.

"Unless he's talking in his sleep he's pretty cogent," joked project manager Paul Moore, who added that the record-breaking millionaire has gotten through numerous similar challenges due to "his level-headedness, stamina and self-reliance."

At 0705 GMT, Fossett had reached the half-way point in his solo voyage, while flying at 46,801 feet (14,265 meters) after being aloft more than 30 hours. The Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer was over Myanmar at speeds of around 300 knots (345 miles per hour/555 kilometers per hour).

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