>>> Fossett passes half-way point
by Derek Yeo


AT 01:14Z 10 Feb, Fossett crossed the half-way mark on his Ultimate Flight's bid for the world's longest non-stop flight without refuelling.

His Virgin Atlantic Global Flyer taped the mark at coordinates N35 degrees and E140 degrees, over Japan after flying 36 hours 47 minutes.

VAGF has now begun the long transit - estimated at over 16 hours - over the Pacific. It is expected to make landfall at Baja Peninsula, Mexico at about 18:00Z on 10 Feb.

When informed of his achievement over Japan by Mission Control, a jubilant Fossett said,"It's great to get to the half-way point and I am relieved that the turbulence had now calmed down and I can concentrate on the flight."

"In fact I have just seen some fantastic views of Mount Fuji as I was flying over Japan, which has been one of the most enjoyable moments of the flight so far."

Jubilation reigned too in Mission Control in Crawley near Gatwick Airport. Fossett's friend, Sir Richard Branson said,"This is a huge achievement especially under the circumstances. The conditions Steve has been through have been extreme to say the least, coping with severe turbulence, extreme heat and no sleep."

"I have always suspected that Steve is half human-half android, and after what he's been through, I believe I may be right! We'll have to get his DNA tested when he gets back."

Mission Controller Kevin Stass, while glad of the outcome so far, sounded a more cautious note.

"Everyone here is thrilled that Steve has reached the half-way point. He has had to overcome some major physical and environmental challenges which is remarkable. But with the uncertainty of the jet streams ahead, it's clear that more challenges are yet to come," Stass said.

Indeed, Steve had earlier flew into severe turbulence over Bhopal in North India. Concerned that the wings might shear off, he had his parachute on in case he had to bail out.

At 05:24:37Z, his heading: 91.7 degrees; speed:369.00 knots; altitude: 45,393 feet; longitude: E169.94429; latitude: N35.99941.