Adventurer Steve Fossett missing in action

Kiwis are an adventuresome lot. We’re always designing, building, finding, competing and exploring.

Steve Fossett is one of those people who has carried this spirit of exploration and innovation in whatever he has done. Sadly, today, he’s missing in action after taking off from a Nevada ranch in a single engine Citabria Super Decathlon. The plane was reportedly carrying enough fuel for four to five hours of flight. Air crews are currently looking for the plane, although no flight plan was lodged and no distress signal has been received.

The American adventurer is famous for his achievements in solo flight: he was the first person to fly solo around the world by balloon in 2002 and then by airplane in 2005. All in all, Fossett has set 116 world records, from ballooning to sailing boats and flying in aeroplanes, gliders and airships.

So, what makes this guy so gutsy? As one commentator has noted:

Despite his wealth and achievements, Fossett is soft-spoken, unassuming and easily lost in a crowd. He is also determined and persistent as hell.

Let’s hope he is safe and well, and soon ready to add more records to his impressive tally.